Equia Forte Research Articles

Effects of Ion-Releasing Materials on Dentine: Analysis of Microhardness, Appearance, and Chemical Composition

The aim of this study was to compare the potential of standard ion-releasing materials to repair demineralized lesions with recently introduced alkasite and glass hybrid materials. Glass ionomer (GC Fuji TRIAGE), two glass hybrids (EQUIA Forte HT, Riva SC), calcium silicate cement (Biodentine) and an alkasite (Cention Forte) were tested. A total of 72 human third molars were used for sample preparation; on the dentine surface, a class-I cavity was prepared, and one half was covered with nail varnish. The teeth were subjected to a demineralization protocol, filled with the examined materials, and cut in half. The evaluation included a dentine microhardness assessment (n = 10) and SEM/EDS analysis (n = 2). The results were analyzed using SPSS 22.0 statistical software and compared using an analysis of variance and Scheffe post-hoc test. The statistical significance level was set to 0.05. Mean microhardness values (HV0.1) after 14 and 28 days were, respectively: EQUIA Forte HT (26.7 ± 1.45 and 37.74 ± 1.56), Riva Self Cure (19.66 ± 1.02 and 29.58 ± 1.18), Cention Forte (19.01 ± 1.24 and 27.93 ± 1.33), Biodentine (23.35 ± 1.23 and 29.92 ± 1.02), GC Fuji TRIAGE (25.94 ± 1.35 and 33.87 ± 5.57) and control group (15.57 ± 0.68 and 15.64 ± 0.82). The results were significantly different between most groups (p < 0.001). SEM/EDS revealed varying patterns, material deposits and distinct elemental variations. To conclude, all materials increased microhardness and affected the dentine surface appearance and chemical composition; EQUIA Forte HT demonstrated the most pronounced effects.

Evaluation of mechanical, optical, and fluoride-releasing properties of a translucent bulk fill glass hybrid restorative dental material.

Measure and compare the mechanical properties, translucency, and fluoride-releasing capabilities of EQUIA Forte HT against Fuji IX GP and ChemFil Rock. Ten specimens of each material were fabricated for compressive strength (CS), flexural strength (FS), and surface hardness analysis at 24 h and 7 days. The L*a*b* values were measured against a black-and-white background using a spectrophotometer to analyze the translucency parameter (TP). Fluoride release was recorded after 2 months of immersion in distilled water. The mean data was analyzed by 1- and 2-way ANOVA (α = 0.5). EQUIA Forte HT showed higher CS, surface hardness, and FS values (p < 0.05) compared with Fuji IX GIC, while no significant difference was found in FS values between EQUIA Forte HT and Chemfil Rock (p > 0.05). The EQUIA Forte HT exhibited significantly higher translucency in comparison to both ChemFil Rock (p < 0.001) and Fuji IX GICs (p < 0.05). An increase (p > 0.05) of fluoride release was observed for EQUIA Forte HT. The EQUIA Forte HT Glass-ionomer cements (GIC) offers enhanced translucency, improved strength, and enhanced fluoride-releasing properties compared to the traditionally used Fuji IX GIC and ChemFil Rock GICs. This material might have a wide range of clinical applications due to its improved strength and optical properties. Glass-ionomer dental restorative materials possess unique advantageous characteristics. However, its poor mechanical and optical properties have typically limited its clinical applications. Efforts to improve these properties have resulted in enhanced GICs. EQUIA Forte HT GIC offers enhanced mechanical and optical properties with potential applications in posterior and anterior restorative procedures.

The Effect of Bevel on Fracture Resistance of GIC Restorations in Primary Molars: An “In Vitro Study”

Introduction: Glass ionomer cements (GICs) are commonly used for restorations in primary molars due to their adhesive, hydrophilic, and bioactive properties. However, their low mechanical resistance may limit their use in proximal cavities. Recent advancements in GICs, such as the high viscosity GIC EQUIA Forte®, have improved their mechanical properties. The effect of a Cavo superficial bevel on the mechanical strength of GIC restorations has been previously studied. Objectives: To investigate the effect of a Cavo superficial bevel on fracture resistance and the type of fracture (adhesive, cohesive, or catastrophic) in EQUIA Forte® GIC restorations in primary molars. Methods: A total of 66 standardized proximal cavities were created on 51 temporary molars. The cavities were randomly divided into two groups: group I without a Cavo superficial bevel (n=33) and group II with a 45° Cavo superficial bevel (n=33). The cavities were restored with EQUIA Forte®. The samples were subjected to thermocycling and artificial aging, then, an axial speed loading of 1 mm/min was applied until fracture. Fracture toughness was recorded, and the type of fracture was observed under an optical microscope. A Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the average fracture resistance between the groups. All tests were two-tailed and the level of significance was set at 5%. Results: The average fracture resistance for group I was (237.57 ± 139.97 N) and for group II was (294.89 ± 171.07 N). There was no statistically significant difference in fracture resistance between the two groups (p&gt;0.05). Mixed fractures were observed in all samples, with adhesive fractures only present in group I and cohesive fractures only present in group II. Conclusions: The Cavo superficial bevel does not significantly affect the fracture resistance of GIC resto rations in primary molars. However, the bevel design may prevent adhesive and catastrophic fractures.

Comparative Evaluation of Compressive Strength of Self-cure, Dual-cure, and Light-cure Glass Ionomer Cements in a Simulated Oral Environment: An In Vitro Study.

In primary dentition, glass ionomer cements (GICs) have unique benefits as a restorative material. Various types of GICs are available in the market. In pediatric dentistry, the choice of GI materials is generally focused on handling convenience with adequate consideration for mechanical qualities, including compressive strength to withstand occlusal stresses in the oral environment. To evaluate the compressive strength of self-cure, dual-cure, and light-cure GI-based cements using a universal testing machine. The study population comprised 30 cylindrical restorative blocks for compressive strength assessment. The restorative materials used for the studies were self-cure GIC (ChemFil Rock and GC Fuji IX GP Fast GIC), dual-cure GIC (Equia Forte and Ionolux GIC), and light-cure GIC (GC Fuji II LC and Ketac N 100 GIC). The cylindrical blocks were prepared using prefabricated Teflon mold measuring 4 mm diameter and 6 mm height from respective restorative materials and divided into three major groups and were subdivided into six groups comprising two materials in each group. Using an Instron universal testing machine, compressive strength was assessed. Data obtained were tabulated, and statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS v22.0) software. On individual comparison of GI-based types of cement, Ketac N100 GIC showed the highest compressive strength, and Fuji IX GP Fast GIC showed the least compressive strength. Light-cure GIC exhibited the highest compressive strength in comparison to dual-cure and self-cure GICs with regard to the nature of curing. Chandru TP, Chandran S, Peedikayil FC, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Compressive Strength of Self-cure, Dual-cure, and Light-cure Glass Ionomer Cements in a Simulated Oral Environment: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(5):707-710.

Effect of Ionizing Radiation on the Mechanical Properties of Two Dental Materials Commonly Used in Primary Teeth.

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of radiotherapy on flexural strength, microhardness, and surface roughness of bulk fill composite (X-tra fil) and glass ionomer (EQUIA Forte HT). A total of 40 specimens were prepared for each test and were divided into two groups according to the material used (composite or glass ionomer cement), and each group was divided into two subgroups (n = 10) according to radiation condition, irradiated subgroup, subjected to 50 Gy by multienergy linear accelerator delivered in one shot and control subgroup. Control samples of flexural strength and microhardness had a significantly higher value than irradiated samples in both materials. Regarding the surface roughness, irradiated samples had a significantly higher value than the control samples in both materials. Irradiation with a linear accelerator had a negative impact on the flexural strength and microhardness of both materials. Moreover, it increased the surface roughness for both materials. Bulk fill composite is the dental restorative material of choice in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy due to its high mechanical properties before and after radiation. Nagi BM, El-Korashy DI, Amin A El-S, et al. Effect of Ionizing Radiation on the Mechanical Properties of Two Dental Materials Commonly Used in Primary Teeth. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(5):758-762.

Evaluation of color stability of bulk-fill restorative materials with different properties

Aims: The present study aims to evaluate the color stability of bulk-fill restorative materials with different properties over different time periods when immersed in a coffee solution.&#x0D; Methods: According to the selected restorative materials, the study groups were formed as follows: CNT/light (Alkasite, Cention N, Ivoclar Vivadent, light cure mode), CNT/self (Alkasite, Cention N, self cure mode) EQF (Glass hybrid restorative, Equia Forte HT, GC Corporation), AU (Single-shade bulk fill, Aura Bulk Fill, SDI), Z550 (Filtek Z550, 3M) (control group). A total of 50 samples (n=10) were prepared using standard molds (2mmx10mm). After finishing and polishing procedures, all samples were kept in distilled water at 37°C for 24 hours. The first color measurement (L*a*b ) was performed with Vita Easy Shade V (VITA Zahnfabrik). Samples were added to the coffee solution. Color was measured at times simulating 7 days, 1 month, 6 months and 1 year of clinical service. Color changes (ΔE1, ΔE2, ΔE3 and ΔE4) were calculated according to the CIE L*a*b system. Normality of the data was examined by D'Agostino &amp; Pearson omnibus normality test. One-way ANOVA analysis and Tukey test were performed. Statistical significance level was set at p 0.05 and statistical analysis software (GraphPad Prism 6.0, GraphPad Software, USA) was used for the analysis.&#x0D; Results: According to ΔE1 results; clinically unacceptable color change (ΔE&gt;3.3) values were observed in CNT/light and CNT/self groups. The color change values of EQF, Z550 and AU groups were statistically similar (p&gt;0.05). According to ΔE2 results; an unacceptable color change (ΔE&gt;3.3) was observed in all groups except EQF. According to ΔE3 results; an unacceptable color change (ΔE&gt;3.3) was observed in all groups. According to ΔE4 results; an unacceptable color change (ΔE&gt;3.3) was observed in all groups. The color change values of EQF, Z550 and AU groups were statistically similar (p&gt;0.05). CNT/light group showed the highest color change in all time periods, followed by CNT/self group.&#x0D; Conclusion: The color stability of single-shade bulk fill material and glass hybrid restorative materials is similar to the control group. The color stability of alkasite material needs to be improved.

Subjective versus objective, polymer bur-based selective carious tissue removal: 2-year randomized clinical trial

ObjectivesWe aimed to compare subjective (S) selective carious tissue removal using hand instruments versus objective (O) removal using a self-limiting polymer bur in a single-blind cluster-randomized controlled superiority trial. Methods115 children (aged 7–8 years) with ≥1 vital primary molar with a deep dentin lesion (>1/2 dentin depth) were included and randomized (60 S/55 O); all eligible molars in a child were treated identically (91 S/86 O). Cavities were prepared and carious tissue on pulpal walls selectively removed using hand instruments (S) or a self-limiting polymer bur (Polybur P1, Komet), followed by restoration using a glass hybrid material (Equia Forte, GC). Treatment time and satisfaction data have been reported in a 1-year-interim report. We here report on 2 year survival (tooth retained with or without further retreatments being needed, or tooth exfoliated), analyzed using multi-level Cox-regression analysis, as well as success (ART criteria 0/1, no pulpal complications, no re-intervention needed, or tooth extraction). Results71 restorations in S and 65 in O were examined after a mean (SD, range) of 22 (11; 3–31) months, of which 50 S and 48 O restorations were successful and 70 S and 65 O survived. The majority of failures were restorative, not pulpal, and distribution of ART codes was not significant different between groups. Risk of failure was not significantly associated with the removal protocol (HR; 95 % CI: 0.95; 0.51–1.78), and also not age, sex or dental arch, while single surfaced restorations showed significantly lower hazard (0.14; 0.06–0.37). ConclusionThere was no significant difference in success or survival between objective and subjective carious tissue removal. Clinical significanceIn primary teeth, subjective selective excavation had no disadvantage compared with objective excavation, which required a separate instrument (polymer-based bur) for carious tissue removal. Polymer-based burs may be particularly useful when standardized excavation is needed.

FARKLI CAM İYONOMER SİMANLARIN RENK STABİLİTELERİ VE MİKROSERTLİKLERİ

Objective&#x0D; Glass ionomers are preferred in many different&#x0D; treatment procedures in dentistry due to their positive&#x0D; features. The aim of this study is to evaluate the&#x0D; color difference and microhardness values of various&#x0D; glass ionomer cement after storing them in different&#x0D; solutions.&#x0D; Material and Method&#x0D; A total of 120 samples were prepared, including 40 of&#x0D; each of the Equia Forte, AHfil Silver, and Ionofil glass&#x0D; ionomers. Each glass ionomer sample was stored in&#x0D; distilled water, cola, tea, and coffee solutions. Color&#x0D; and microhardness measurements of the specimens&#x0D; were performed before and after a week before it was&#x0D; immersed in solutions. The color measurements of the&#x0D; samples were evaluated with a spectrophotometer and&#x0D; microhardness values were evaluated with Vickers&#x0D; microhardness device. For color analysis, color&#x0D; changes (ΔE) were calculated by obtaining the values&#x0D; of L*, a*, and b* of the samples before and after a week&#x0D; after being immersed in solutions. The data obtained&#x0D; were evaluated by variance analysis (ANOVA) and&#x0D; Tukey’s test.&#x0D; Results&#x0D; Except for specimens stored in cola for AHfil Silver,&#x0D; microhardness values were increased for all materials&#x0D; immersed in test solutions. The highest color change&#x0D; was obtained in coffee for Equia Forte, in the samples&#x0D; immersed in cola for AHfil Silver and Ionophil (p

Short-Term Fluoride Release from Ion- Releasing Dental Materials.

To compare short-term release of fluoride ions from ion-releasing dental restorative materials. Seven experimental groups were prepared using the following six different materials: alkasite (Cention Forte), resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Fuji II LC), bioactive composite (ACTIVA BioACTIVE-RESTORATIVE), fluoride-containing nano-hybrid composite (Luminos UN), coat-free glass hybrid (EQUIA Forte HT), coat-applied glass hybrid (EQUIA Forte HT), and glass ionomer cement (Fuji IX). A total of 40 samples for each group (n=40) were prepared in Teflon molds (8 mm x 2 mm) and placed in polyethylene vials with 5 ml of deionized water. Fluoride release was measured after 6, 24, 48 hours, and for 5 weeks using an ion-selective electrode. The results were expressed in mg/l and the data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA. Significant differences in fluoride release were observed within the first 6 hours (ANOVA p<0.001). EQUIA Forte HT had the highest release, while the other materials showed no significant differences. After 24 hours, EQUIA Forte HT (p<0.001) and Luminos UN (p<0.05) exhibited significantly higher releases, compared to other tested materials. EQUIA Forte HT maintained the highest release at 48 hours (p<0.001), followed by Cention Forte (p<0.05) and Luminos UN (p<0.05). All material pairs showed significant differences in fluoride release at 5 weeks (p<0.001). Coat-free EQUIA Forte HT had the overall highest fluoride release, while Cention Forte demonstrated the greatest increase over time. ACTIVA BioACTIVE-RESTORATIVE exhibited the lowest fluoride release in this study.

A Comparative Study of the Repair Bond Strength of New Self-Adhesive Restorative Materials With a Resin Composite Material.

The aim of the present study is to compare the repair bond strengths (RBSs) of Cention-N (light-cure and self-cure modes), Equia Forte HT Filand a nanohybrid resin composite. Equia Forte HT Fil (GC, Tokyo, Japan), Cention-N (Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein) and Filtek Z550 (3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA) were used in this study.EquiaForte HT Fil(EQF), Cention-N self-cure (CSC), Cention-N light-cure (CLC) and Filtek Z550 (Z550) groups were formed.A total of 40 samples were prepared; 10 samples in each group (n = 10).After the polymerization was completed according to the manufacturer's instructions, the samples were polished with OptiDisc (Kerr Corporation, Orange, USA) for 5 s each, from extra-course to extra-fine. After all samples were stored in 37°C water for 24 h, 10,000 cycles of brushing simulator and thermal cycles were applied to the samples.The samples were prepared in accordance with the selected repair protocol, and microshear bond strength (µSBS) test was performed. Fracture analysis on debonded surfaces was visualized by scanning electron microscopy. The conformity of the data to normal distribution was analyzed by the Shapiro-Wilk test. Multiple comparisons were performed using Dunn's test. Z550 showed significantly higher µSBS as compared to the other three groups. There is no differencebetween CSC, CLC and EQF. The use of Cention-N's self-cure or light-cure mode did not affect the RBSvalues. The RBS values of Cention-N and Equia Forte HT Fil materials are lower than those of the composite resin material.

Deterioration of direct restorative materials under erosive conditions with impact of abrasion and attrition in vitro

Objective To compare the cumulative impact of sequential wear on mechanical properties and appearance of a composite resin (CR), Filtek Z250®, a glass ionomer GI, Fuji IX GP®, and a glass hybrid (GH), Equia Forte®. Material and Methods Six equally sized specimens of each material were subjected to wear tests, i.e., simulation of brushing, chewing and acidic liquid exposure, mimicking at least 6 months of clinical exposure. Surface roughness, hardness, substance loss and degree of shade lightness were determined. Results Following wear tests, significant increase in surface roughness and decrease in hardness values were observed for all materials (p < .05). Significantly larger substance loss was found in Equia Forte® specimens compared to Filtek Z250® (p < .05), while that of Fuji IX® exceeded the measurement capacity of the instrument. Opposite to the two other materials, the shade of Filtek Z250® became darker. Conclusions Sequential wear exposure mimicking abrasion, erosion and attrition to products representing CR, GI and GH, caused weakening and change in appearance of the materials. The composite resin was the most mechanically resistant to the sequential wear.

Effect of water aging on the shear bond strength of different self-adhesive restorative materials to dentin

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of water aging on the shear bond strength of four self-adhesive restorative materials on dentin. Sixty permanent human molars recently extracted for prophylactic purposes were used in this study. The crown of each tooth was cut under water-cooled conditions using a plaster cutting engine to expose the middle dentin surface of the teeth. The prepared teeth were randomly divided into six groups according to the restorative materials [KERR Vertise Flow (VF), GC EQUIA Forte (EQ), PENTRON Fusio Liquid Dentin (PF), IMICRYL Nova Compo SF (NC) Clearfil Majesty ES-2 (CM-control) and Clearfil Majesty ES Flow (CF-control)]. Each restorative material was applied to two different areas of each tooth (n = 120) using cylindrical silicone molds with dimensions of 2 mm × 2 mm. Macro-shear tests were conducted using a Universal Testing Machine (1 mm/min) initially (24 h) and after aging (6 months of water aging), and the failure types were analyzed. For the initial values, a significant difference in the shear bond strength of the self-adhesive and control groups was observed. After aging, the bond strength increased for flowable composite material (CF) and decreased for two different self-adhesive restorative material groups (NC and EQ). There was no significant difference in the bond strength before and aging in the paste-like control composite group (CM) and in the two self-adhesive restorative material groups (VF and PF). Differences in the shear bond strength were observed between the self-adhesive and control materials both before and after aging.

Radiopacity of Posterior Restorative Materials: A Comparative In Vitro Study.

The objective was to investigate the radiopacity of 11 commercial posterior restorative materials by establishing their mean gray values (MGVs) and comparing them with dental hard tissues. Five-disc specimens were prepared for each of the following materials: Cerasmart 270 CAD/CAM block A3LT (CS), Amalgam (A), Ketac Molar A3 (KM), Cention-N A2 (CN), G-aenial Universal Flo AO2 (GO2) and A2 (G2), Ever-X Flow Dentine (EXD) and Bulk (EXB) shades, Equia Forte HT Fil A2 (EF2) and A3 (EF3), and Equia Fil A3 (E3). Freshly extracted maxillary premolar teeth were used as a control. The MGVs of specimens and a 10-step aluminum stepwedge (Al) were measured with Adobe Photoshop. ANOVA and Dunnett T3 tests were used to assess the significance of the differences (α=0.05). Statistically significant differences were revealed between some of the groups. Amalgam had the highest radiopacity. The radiopacity of dentin and CS were close to that of 1 mm Al. G2, KM, GO2, EXB, and EXD showed higher mean radiopacity than dentin. Enamel had a radiopacity equivalent to 2 mm Al. CN, EF2, and E3 had higher mean radiopacity than enamel. All materials met the ISO requirements. Alkasite and reinforced glass ionomer restoratives demonstrated higher mean radiopacity than the posterior flowable composites. Material shades did not affect the radiopacity.

Evaluation of Different Indirect Pulp Treatment Materials Used in Deep Carious Primary Molars

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical and the radiographic outcomes of indirect pulp treatment (IPT) in primary molars using Calcium Hydroxide, Resin Modified Glass Ionomer and TheraCal LC. Subjects and Methods: Sample of 45 children aged from 4-8 years with deep carious one or more primary molars allocated randomly into 3 groups according to the capping material. Group I: Calcium Hydroxide (Dycal). Group II: Resin Modified Glass Ionomer (Vitrebond) and Group III: TheraCal LC. Teeth were treated then restored with EQUIA Forte HT in one visit and evaluated clinically and radiographically after three and six months. Results: The overall clinical and radiographic success rates were (88.2%) for Dycal group, (94.1%) for Vitrebond group and (100%) for TheraCal LC group. Results showed no statistically significant difference between groups in the overall clinical and radiographic success at 3 and 6 months. Conclusions: The indirect pulp treatment may be considered an appropriate procedure when applied on deeply carious primary teeth without irreversible pulpitis to achieve acceptable therapeutic results.

Evaluation of Different Indirect Pulp Treatment Materials Used in Deep Carious Primary Molars

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical and the radiographic outcomes of indirect pulp treatment (IPT) in primary molars using Calcium Hydroxide, Resin Modified Glass Ionomer and TheraCal LC. Subjects and Methods: Sample of 45 children aged from 4-8 years with deep carious one or more primary molars allocated randomly into 3 groups according to the capping material. Group I: Calcium Hydroxide (Dycal). Group II: Resin Modified Glass Ionomer (Vitrebond) and Group III: TheraCal LC. Teeth were treated then restored with EQUIA Forte HT in one visit and evaluated clinically and radiographically after three and six months. Results: The overall clinical and radiographic success rates were (88.2%) for Dycal group, (94.1%) for Vitrebond group and (100%) for TheraCal LC group. Results showed no statistically significant difference between groups in the overall clinical and radiographic success at 3 and 6 months. Conclusions: The indirect pulp treatment may be considered an appropriate procedure when applied on deeply carious primary teeth without irreversible pulpitis to achieve acceptable therapeutic results.

Time-Dependent Change of Color and Translucency of Recent Restorative Materials in Various Beverages

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the time-dependent changes in optical properties of recent tooth-colored restorative materials in commonly used coloring beverages.&#x0D; Method: A total of 200 specimens of four different materials (Alkasite, ACTIVA, Equia Forte, Zirconomer) and a composive material as the control group were prepared in Teflon molds and the materials were immersed in four different solutions (coffee, cola, ice tea and saliva) (n=10). Color measurements were performed with a spectrophotometer at baseline, 7, 14 and 28 days. Color changes, translucency parameters (TP) and contrast ratios of the materials were calculated. The data were analyzed by repeated measurements and three-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests.&#x0D; Results: Alkasite showed the greatest color change for all solutions in all immersion periods compared to other materials (p

The assessment of internal adaptation and fracture resistance of glass ionomer and resin-based restorative materials applied after different caries removal techniques in primary teeth: an in-vitro study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the 3-dimensional (3D) internal adaptation (IA) and fracture resistance (FR) of compomer and glass ionomers applied after conventional caries removal to sound dentin (CCRSD) and selective caries removal to firm dentin (SCRFD) in in-vitro. Thirty extracted primary molars were randomly assigned to three main groups (n = 10) as glass hybrid restorative (GHR) (Equia Forte® HT), conventional glass ionomer (CGIR) (Voco Ionofil Molar) and compomer (Dyract XP). Each group was randomly divided into two subgroups according to caries removal technique as CCRSD (n = 5) and SCRFD (n = 5). The restoration procedures were completed after caries removal (CCRSD or SCRFD) in all samples. Then, specimens were subjected to IA and FR tests. Data were analyzed with Student's t, one-way ANOVA, and Kruskal Wallis-H tests. The correlation between IA and FR results was analyzed with a Pearson test. The statistical significance level was considered as 5%. While CCRSD showed superior IA results than SCRFD for all restorative materials (p < 0.05), no statistical difference was found between CCRSD and SCRFD in FR assessment (p > 0.05). In CCRSD, compomer showed superior results for IA and FR than glass ionomers (p < 0.05). In SCRFD, it was found no significant difference between the restoratives for IA (p > 0.05). However, compomer showed superior FR results than glass ionomers (p < 0.05). There was moderate negative correlation between internal voids and FR without statistically significant difference (r = -0.333, p = 0.072). Despite the advantages of SCRFD, it was found to be less superior than CCRSD in IA assessment. Therefore, when SCRFD is preferred, a peripheral seal should be provided for ideal restorative treatment. On the other hand, compomer mostly showed superior results compared to others.

Remineralization Potential of Three Restorative Glass Ionomer Cements: An In Vitro Study.

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the remineralizing ability of three glass ionomers on demineralized dentin with different thicknesses and time periods. Fifty third molars were obtained and were sectioned into 1-, 2-, and 3-mm thick slices (n = 36 for each thickness). The specimens were demineralized with 18% EDTA for 2 h. From the glass ionomer cements (GICs) under study (Ketac Molar Aplicap, Equia Forte, or Riva Light Cure), 1 mm was placed over each slice, set, and preserved in PBS until observation after 1, 7, 14, and 28 days after placement. For each material, thickness, and time, three samples were prepared. Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR), apatite formation was determined on the side opposite to that on which the material had been placed. By means of Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDX), the changes in the Calcium/Phosphate (Ca/P) ratio were evaluated. These changes were compared between the different materials by means of a two-way ANOVA test, considering time and dentin thickness, for a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: FTIR showed a peak at 1420 cm-1, evidencing the presence of carbonated hydroxyapatite in all the materials after 14 days, which indicates that a remineralization process occurred. Riva Light Cure showed the most homogeneous results at all depths at 28 days. The Ca/P ratio was maximum at 7 days in 2 mm of dentin for Riva Light Cure and Equia Forte HT (3.16 and 3.07; respectively) and for Ketac Molar at 14 days in 1 mm (3.67). All materials induced remineralization. Equia Forte achieved the greatest effect at 2 mm and Ketac Molar at 1 mm, whereas Riva Light Cure showed similar results at all depths. In terms of Ca/P ratio, Equia Forte and Riva Light Cure remineralized best at 2 mm, whereas for Ketac Molar, it was 1 mm. Carbonate apatite formation was higher at 24 h and 7 days for Ketac Molar, whereas it decreased at 14 days for Ketac Molar and peaked in Riva Light Cure and Equia Forte.

Effect of a novel coating material on the microleakage of glass hybrid restoration in primary teeth – An in vitro study

Background: Glass ionomer restorations are widely employed in the field of pediatric dentistry. There is a constant demand for a durable restoration that remains functional until exfoliation. This study aimed to measure and compare the effect of a novel coating material (EQUIA Forte Coat) on the microleakage of glass hybrid restoration (EQUIA Forte HT) in primary teeth. Material and method: Thirty cavitated (class-II) primary molars were allocated randomly into two groups based on the coat application; uncoated (control) and coated group (experimental). Cavities were prepared by the use of a ceramic bur (CeraBur) and restored with EQUIA Forte HT with or without applying a protective coat (EQUIA Forte Coat). Samples went through the thermocycling process and dipped in 2% methylene blue dye before being sectioned through the center of the restoration. Microleakage was evaluated digitally using software and a camera connected to a stereomicroscope (30 x magnification) to assess dye penetration of the sectioned samples at both the occlusal and gingival marginal levels. Results: There was a significant difference between the coated and uncoated groups at both occlusal (p=.029) and gingival margin sites (p=.001). Conclusion: Higher microleakage values were associated with the uncoated group compared to the coated one. The application of a protective coating to the restorations is an efficient approach to decrease the microleakage of the restorations that can be usefully adopted in clinical practice.

Leaching components and initial biocompatibility of novel bioactive restorative materials.

Bioactive restorative materials were developed on the premise that direct restorations should not only serve the purpose of reconstructing dental hard tissue defects but also exhibit biological features that prevent secondary caries development, without having adverse effects on the host cells. This study focuses on assessing the in vitro biocompatibility of two novel bioactive restorative materials. Specimens of the bioactive restorative materials, Cention Forte (CF) and ACTIVA BioACTIVE RESTORATIVE (AB), a glass ionomer cement/glass hybrid (EQUIA Forte HT, EF) and an established nanohybrid composite (Venus Diamond, VD) were produced and finished. The specimens were eluted in water and methanol and the resulting eluates were analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. hGF-1 cells were exposed to eluates prepared in cell culture medium. Cellular ATP levels, oxidized glutathione concentration, caspase-3/7 activity and the inflammatory response (IL-6 and PGE2 levels) were determined. Microscopic images were taken to examine the cell morphology. Methyl methacrylate and 2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate were the main monomers detected in CF and AB eluates. All materials inhibited cell proliferation and led to significantly reduced ATP-levels. The cells exhibited a healthy morphology in the presence of CF and AB. Cells exposed to VD showed increased oxidized glutathione levels. Only EF led to enhanced caspase-3/7 activity. CF and AB caused IL-6 levels to increase, while EF and AB led to enhanced PGE2 levels. CF and AB are promising materials from a biological point of view and seem to have improved bioactive properties compared to glass ionomer cements.