Elemental and Micromorphological Analysis of Ion Releasing Restorative Materials Subsequent to Finishing and Polishing Procedures: In Vitro Study

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surface morphology and composition of of two ion-releasing materials) submitted to finishing and polishing (F/P). Methodology: Disc-shaped specimens (10 mm × 2 mm) were made from both ion-releasing materials restorative materials Giomer (Beautifil II, Shofu Inc.), and Alkasite based material (Cention N, Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Lichtenstein) submitted to F/P with [Super-Snap X-Treme Technique Kit, Shofu Inc. and Astropol, Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Lichtenstein)]. Filler particles morphology and composition were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), respectively. Data were analysed by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s test (α = 0.05). Results: The smoothest surfaces were obtained for the control (unfinished) subgroups of all specimens. Regarding to F/P groups, Giomer specimens presented a relatively smooth surface after F/P with Super-Snap X-Treme Technique Kit. The EDX spectra showed no elemental transference from F/P tool to material surface by F/P procedures. Conclusion: The effect of F/P systems on surface roughness was dependent on the particle type and size of both F/P system and resin based restorative material.