Light-cured Resin Cement Research Articles

Effect of exposure time and moving the curing light on the degree of conversion and Knoop microhardness of light-cured resin cements

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of exposure time and moving the light-curing unit (LCU) on the degree of conversion (DC) and Knoop microhardness (KH) of two resin cements that were light-cured through ceramic. MethodsTwo resin cements: AllCem Veneer APS (FGM) and Variolink Esthetic LC (Ivoclar Vivadent) were placed into a 0.3 mm thick matrix in 6 locations representing the canine to canine. The resins were covered with 0.5 mm thick lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent). A motorized device moved the LCUs over the ceramic when the LCU was on. Two single-peak LCUs: Elipar DeepCure-L (3M Oral Care) and Emitter C (Schuster), and one multi-peak: Bluephase G2 (Ivoclar Vivadent) were used with 3 different exposure protocols: a localized exposure centered over each tooth for 10 or 40 s; moving the tip across the 6 teeth for a total exposure time of 10 or 40 s; and moving the tip across the 6 teeth resins for a total exposure time of 60 or 240 s. After 24 h, the DC and KH were measured on the top surfaces and the data was analyzed using three-way ANOVA and Tukey’s tests (α = 0.05). ResultsInterposition of 0.5 mm of ceramic reduced the irradiance received by the resin by approximately 50%. The 40 s localized exposure over each tooth always produced significantly higher DC and KH values. Moving the LCUs with a total exposure time of 10 s resulted in the lowest DC and KH. There was no beneficial effect on the DC or KH when the multi-peak (violet-blue) LCU (Elipar DeepCure-L or Bluephase G2), but the lower light output from a small tip LCU reduced the DC and KH values (Emitter C). SignificanceMoving the LCUs when photo-curing light-cured resin cements is not recommended. This study showed that a single-peak LCU could activate a resin cement that uses Ivocerin™ as well as the multi-peak LCU.

Effect of photo-polymerization mode on the degree of conversion of resin cement under different ceramic materials.

This study evaluated the effect of different polymerization modes and duration on the degree of conversion (DC) of resin cement under different types of ceramics. Ceramic materials were divided into 3 groups (N.=60): group 1, Cerasmart; group 2, Vita Enamic; and group 3, Vita Mark II. Each group was then divided into three subgroups (N.=20) according to the polymerization mode (A: low-intensity; B: high-intensity; and C: soft-start). Subgroups were then divided into two further groups according to the polymerization time (I: 10 s; and II: 20 s). DC of light-cured resin cement beneath different kinds of ceramics was tested using FTIR spectroscopy. Results were compared to a control group cured without overlying ceramic. While the type of ceramic and mode of polymerization showed a significant effect on the DC of resin cement, polymerization duration did not. Vita Mark II group showed the highest DC of resin cement followed by Vita Enamic and Cerasmart. High- and low-intensity polymerization modes did not show significant difference, but both showed significantly lower DC when compared to soft start mode. Type of ceramic and polymerization mode showed a direct effect on the DC of resin cement.

Raloxifene administration enhances retention in an orthodontic relapse model.

Orthodontic relapse is a physiologic process that involves remodelling of the alveolar bone and principle periodontal ligament fibres. Raloxifene is an Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved selective oestrogen receptor modulator that inhibits systemic bone loss. In our study, we examined the effects of Raloxifene on alveolar bone modelling and orthodontic relapse in a rodent model. The efficacy of raloxifene was evaluated in 15-week-old male Wistar rats, 8 in each group (Control, Raloxifene, Raloxifene + 7-day relapse, Raloxifene + 14-day relapse) for a total of 42 days. All animals had 14 days of orthodontic tooth movement with a closed nickel-titanium coil spring tied from incisors to right first molar applying 5-8 gm of force. On the day of appliance removal, impression was taken with silicon material and the distance between first molar and second molar was filled with light-cured adhesive resin cement for retention phase. Raloxifene Retention, Raloxifene Retention + 7D, Raloxifene Retention + 14D groups received 14 daily doses of raloxifene (2.0 mg/kg/day) subcutaneously after orthodontic tooth movement during retention. After 14 days of retention, the retainer was removed and right first molar was allowed to relapse for a period of 14 days. Raloxifene injection continued for the Raloxifene + 14-day relapse group during relapse phase too. Control group received saline injections during retention. Animals were euthanized by CO2 inhalation. The outcome measure included percentage of relapse, bone volume fraction, tissue density, and histology analysis using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining and determining receptor activator of nuclear factor-кB-ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin expression. Raloxifene Retention + 14D group had significantly less (P < 0.05) orthodontic relapse when compared with other groups. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in bone volume fraction and tissue density in the Raloxifene Retention + 14D group when compared with other groups. Similarly, there was significant decrease in number of osteoclasts and RANKL expression in Raloxifene Retention + 14D group when compared with Raloxifene Retention + 7D group (P < 0.05). Raloxifene could decrease post-orthodontic treatment relapse by decreasing bone resorption and indirectly enhancing bone formation.

In Vitro Evaluation of Physical and Mechanical Properties of Light-Curing Resin Cement: A Comparative Study.

Objective The aim of study was to evaluate in vitro the surface hardness, sorption, solubility, and color stability of three light-cured resin cements, namely RelyX Veneer (RLX), Variolink Veneer (VLK), and All Cem Veneer (ACV). Materials and Methods Cylindrical samples (15 × 1 mm) were made for each group using a metallic mold ( n = 10). Vickers microhardness test was performed, and average hardness was calculated from three indentations (300 gf/15s) per sample. The sorption and solubility of the materials were evaluated according to ISO 4049:2009 based on three samples weighing: initial ( m 1 ), after immersion in distilled water for 7 days ( m 2 ), and final (after removal of all moisture [ m 3 ]). The color change was observed using a digital spectrophotometer, at three different time points, baseline, 1 day, and 1 week of immersion in coffee and distilled water (control). Statistical Analysis Shapiro–Wilk test was used to analyze the normality of the data, and groups were compared using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests. A significance level of 5% was used. Results RLX showed the highest microhardness mean values (36.96 VHN), but higher sorption (23.2 µg/mm 3 ) and solubility (2.40 µg/mm 3 ), with statistically significant differences with the other groups. For color stability, higher ∆E was observed for the samples immersed in coffee ( p = 0.009). The VLK resin cement presented statistically significant differences from the other groups, with higher color changes in coffee at 1 day (15.14) and after 1 week (23.65). Conclusion RLX resin cement showed better hardness results. All materials tested performed satisfactorily for sorption and solubility according to ISO 4049:2009. All materials showed high-staining values after 1 week of immersion in coffee.

Degree of Conversion of Light Cured Resin Cements Polymerized under Two Thicknesses of Different Lithium Silicate Ceramics

Objective: To show the consequence of two thicknesses of ceramic on the polymerization of resin cement light cured when three different lithium silicate ceramics were used. Materials and Methods: 42 ceramic slices were prepared from three types of ceramics, Emax CAD, Celtra Duo CAD and Vita suprinity CAD (n=14). They were further divided into two subgroups according to thicknesses into sub group thickness 0.5mm and sub group thickness 1mm (n=7). Teflon moulds were fabricated with specific dimensions, where the ceramic disc was placed followed by light cured resin cement Bisco choice 2 veneer and a glass slab with finger pressure applied. Curing with Ascent® PX LED light cure unit for 20 seconds took place, where the tip placed over the ceramic sample directly. Cement film was then separated from the ceramic disk and subjected to analysis by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscope. Uncured cement samples were also subjected to analysis. Results: Celtra DUO CAD ceramic showed higher degree of polymerization that of Emax and Vita suprinity while the difference between Emax and Suprinity on the degree of polymerization was not significant. Also, ceramic thicknesses had a significant effect on the degree of polymerization of the resin cement. Conclusion: Thickness of ceramics up to 1mm affects the polymerization of resin cement significantly.

Microleakage of Lithium Disilicate Veneers Bonded to Different Substrates with Light-cure and Dual-cure Resin Cements.

This study aimed to evaluate the microleakage of lithium disilicate veneers with finish lines placed cervically in different substrates (enamel, dentin, and resin composite) and bonded with light-cure (LC) and amine-free dual-cure (DC) resin cements. Forty-eight human maxillary central incisors were randomly assigned into three groups according to finish line substrate (n=16/group). Each group was subdivided randomly into two subgroups (n=8/subgroup) according to resin cement type: LC resin cement (Variolink Esthetic LC, Ivoclar Vivadent) and DC resin cement (Variolink Esthetic DC, Ivoclar Vivadent). All the specimens received lithium disilicate veneers (IPS e.max Press, Ivoclar Vivadent). After 5000 cycles of thermocycling, the microleakage was measured using the dye penetrating technique. Data were analyzed statistically using Scheirer Ray Hare test, Kruskal-Wallis H-test, and Mann-Whitney U-test. The level of significance was set at p ≤ .05. There was a statistically significant difference between different substrates in microleakage (p=.001), but there was no statistically significant difference between resin cements (p=.907), and there was no interaction between substrates and resin cements (p=.983). Microleakage was lesser when the finish line was placed at enamel and resin composite than at dentin. Similar leakage scores were observed with LC and DC resin cements. The finish line of ceramic veneer is suggested to be placed in enamel or good-quality resin composite restoration. Regarding microleakage and durability, LC and amine-free DC resin cements are suggested for ceramic veneer cementation. Key words:Different substrates, Dual-cure resin cement, Light-cure resin cement, Lithium disilicate veneers, Microleakage.

The effect of thickness and translucency of polymer-infiltrated ceramic-network material on degree of conversion of resin cements.

PURPOSEThe aim of the present study was to determine the degree of conversion of light- and dual-cured resin cements used in the cementation of all-ceramic restorations under different thicknesses of translucent (T) and high-translucent (HT) polymer-infiltrated ceramic-network (PICN) material.MATERIALS AND METHODST and HT PICN blocks were prepared at 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mm thicknesses (n=80). Resin cement samples were prepared with a diameter of 6 mm and a thickness of 100 µm. Light-cured resin cement was polymerized for 30 seconds, and dual-cure resin cement was polymerized for 20 seconds (n=180). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used for degree of conversion measurements. The obtained data were analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey HSD, and independent t-test.RESULTSAs a result of FTIR analysis, the degree of conversion of the light-cured resin cement prepared under 1.5- and 2.0-mm-thick T and HT ceramics was found to be lower than that of the control group. Regarding the degree of conversion of the dual-cured resin cement group, there was no significant difference from the control group.CONCLUSIONWithin the limitation of present study, it can be concluded that using of dual cure resin cement can be suggested for cementation of PICN material, especially for thicknesses of 1.5 mm and above.

The Effects of Different Colors and Light Sources on the Bond Strength of Cerec Feldspathic Blocks Bonded to Light-Cured Resin Cement

Objectives: To evaluate the bonding with resin cement of different colored prefabricated feldspathic ceramic blocks used in the computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technique when different light sources were used beneath the ceramics. Materials and Methods: Specimens of 2 mm thickness were prepared in nine different colors. All the groups were bonded to composite resin blocks using a light-cured resin cement beneath plasma arc (PAC, 2400 mW/cm2), light emitting diode (LED, 1600–1800 mW/cm2) and quartz tungsten halogen (QTH, 800–1200 mW/cm2) light sources. Following the cementation, all the specimens were kept in distilled water for 24 hours in closed cups before the shear test was performed. The data were analysed by means of a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey HSD test (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Results: The highest light power was observed in the PAC groups, while the lowest light power was observed in the QTH groups, and the difference was found to be statistically significant (p&amp;lt;0.05). The highest bond strengths were obtained in the S2M and S2T color groups without the discrimination of the light source, and no statistically significant difference was found between these groups. The lowest bond strength was obtained in the S4O color group. Conclusions: This in vitro study found that the bond strength of feldspathic ceramic restorations is directly related to the utilised light source and, further, that the bond strength decreases as the ceramic color becomes darker.

Effect of diphenyliodonium hexafluorphosphate in the yellowing and properties of experimental resin cements

Aim: The yellowing effect is undesirable and can occur in the dental restoration margins when light-cured resin cements containing camphorquinone as photoinitiator is used. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of diphenyliodonium hexafluorphosphate (DPI) in photoinitiator systems that contained different concentrations of camphorquinone (CQ) and dimethylamino ethyl benzoate (EDAB) on resin cements. Methods: A base (1:1) of bisphenol A diglycidyl methacrylate (BisGMA) and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) was obtained, and 60wt% of glass fillers was added. Eight formulations were obtained: RC1 (0.5mol% CQ / 1mol% EDAB), RC2 (0.5mol% CQ / 2mol% EDAB), RC3 (1mol% CQ / 1mol% EDAB), RC4 (1mol% CQ / 2mol% EDAB), and RC5 to RC8, which contained the same bases plus 0.5mol% DPI. Experimental resin cements were evaluated by the degree of conversion (DC), L*a*b* color analysis, water sorption (WS) and solubility (S), flexural strength, and Elastic Modulus. The data were analyzed by three-way ANOVA, Tukey’s and Mann-Whitney tests (α = 0.05). Results: The combination of DPI and 0.5mol% CQ increased DC in RC6 and L* in RC5 without increasing the WS and a* b* values. CQ at 1mol% showed higher values of b* and lower values of a*, except for RC3. Groups with 2mol% EDAB showed higher DC. Conclusion: The addition of DPI reduces CQ, generating a decreased yellowing effect, while maintaining adequate properties in the resin cements, especially with 2mol% EDAB.

Color stability of ceramic veneers as a function of resin cement curing mode and shade: 3-year follow-up.

The influence of curing mode and shade of resin cements on the color stability of minimum-thickness ceramic veneers after a three-year storage time in distilled water was evaluated in this study. Ninety-six 0.5-mm-thick feldspathic ceramic veneers (Mark II) were luted onto resin composite substrates (Filtek Z350 XT, shade A2E) with two light-cured (NX3 Light-cure and AllCem Veneer) and dual-cured resin cements (NX3 dual-cure and AllCem) in various shades. The specimens were stored in distilled water at 37°C. Color measurements were performed with a spectrophotometer at the following times: 1h and 24h; 7, 30, and 180 days; and 1, 2, and 3 years. Data for color difference (ΔEab) light-cured and dual-cured resin cements were analyzed by two-way ANOVA with repeated measures and Tukey’s test (α = 0.05). For the light-cured cements, the ΔEab values were as follows: NX3-Yellow (2.37±1.35) = ACV-A1 (2.40±1.21) = ACV-Trans (2.52±1.46) = ACV-E-Bleach M (2.56±1.42) = NX3-White (2.69±1.49) = NX3-Clear (2.98±1.68). The lowest ΔE values were found for 1 h (0.61±0.36)a, followed by 24 h (1.15±0.55)b and 30 days (2.48±1.11)c. One year, 180 days, and 2 and 3 years presented higher ΔEab values (3.34±0.94, 3.52±1.04, 3.52±0.95 and 3.55±1.14, respectively)d. For the dual-cured cements, the ΔEab values varied as follows: NX3-Clear (2.32±1.24)a = NX3-Yellow (2.37±1.32)a = NX3-White (2.76±1.43)a < AC-Trans (3.77±1.91)b = AC-A3 (4.13±2.11)b < AC-A1 (5.38±2.92)c. Considering time, the lowest ΔEab values were found for 1 h (0.48±0.25)a, followed by 24 h (2.13 ±0.83)b, 30 days (3.54±1.31)c, and 180 days (3,70±1.73)c. The follow-up times of 1 (4.43±2.15)d, 2 (5.02±1.74)e, and 3 years (4.90±2.12)e presented higher ΔEab values. This study demonstrated that light-cured resin cements were less susceptible to color change than dual-cured cements. After 2 years of follow-up, all cements presented ΔEab values above the acceptability threshold.

Silane influence on bonding to CAD-CAM composites: An interfacial fracture toughness study

ObjectivesTo evaluate silane influence on the interfacial fracture toughness (IFT) of composite cement, with the two sub-classes of CAD-CAM composites, polymer-infiltrated ceramic networks (PICN) and dispersed fillers (DF), after hydrofluoric acid etching (HF) or airborne-particle abrasion (AB). A secondary objective was to correlate results with developed interfacial area ratio (Sdr) and surface wettability. MethodsExperimental PICN and DF blocks were cut into equilateral half-prisms, which were treated with HF or AB, then treated with an experimental silane or not and bonded to their counterparts with an experimental light-cure resin cement. After thermocycling, samples (n=30 per group) were tested for IFT using the notchless triangular prism test in a water bath at 36°C. Moreover, profilometry and contact angle measurement were performed on rectangular samples of each group. Finally, bonding interface was analysed by SEM. ResultsPICN-HF treated with silane showed the highest IFT significantly. Three-way ANOVA revealed the influence of silane, material class and surface pre-treatment (HF or AB) on IFT (p<0.05). When silane was used, IFT was correlated with Sdr, while surface wettability was increased. Silane application significantly increased IFT for PICN but not for DF, while PICN performed better with HF and DF with AB. SignificanceSilane increases IFT of composite cement with PICNs, but not with DF materials. Results suggest that silane increases the micromechanical bond by promoting resin cement spreading and penetration in surface roughness. This roughness is significantly higher for pre-treated PICNs than for DF due to their specific honeycomb microstructure when etched, which explains their better bonding properties.

The Effect of Ceramic Thickness on the Surface Microhardness of Dual-cured and Light-cured Resin Cements

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of ceramic thickness on the surface hardness of light-cured and dual-cured resin cements. Forty disk-like specimens of the dual-cured resin cement and twenty-four specimens of the light-cured resin cement were prepared (with 6 mm diameter and 1mm thickness). The samples were light-cure d for 40 seconds through three different ceramic disks (2 mm, 3 mm and 4 mm). Control specimens from each group were directly polymerized under a Mylar strip. In the control group of the dual-cured resin cement, the cement setting was realized by chemical reaction alone. After storing dry in darkness (24 hours, 37°C), the surface hardness of the specimens was measured using the Vickers microhardness test. Data were statistically analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by the LSD's test (p <0.05). BisCem resin cement which had been dual-cured under the 4 mm thickness ceramic with the 4.3 Vickers hardness, showed minimum surface microhardness, while the light-cured resin cement which had been directly activated in the control group with the 51.8 Vickers hardness value exhibited the maximum surface microhardness. So, BisCem dual polymerized control specimens had significantly higher hardness values in comparison to the chemically polymerized and indirectly activated ones (p <0.001). An increase in the thickness of ceramic could decrease the hardness of the resin cement. An overlying ceramic thickness of 3 mm and above was found to adversely affect the polymerization of the LC and DC resin cement and it was considered as the clinical threshold. In addition, using only the self-cured mode in the dual-cured resin cement was not sufficient for achieving the optimum surface microhardness. Clinical significant: Adequate polymerization of resin cement is essential for the optimal mechanical properties and clinical performance. It affects by increasing the thickness of ceramic restorations.

Color Stability of Ceramic Veneers Cemented with Self-Adhesive Cements after Accelerated Aging.

Objectives:Color change of cements over time can be detected through translucent ceramic veneers, compromising the aesthetic appearance of restorations in the long-term. This study aimed to assess the color stability of ceramic laminate veneers cemented with self-adhesive resin cements after accelerated aging.Materials and Methods:In this study, 21 IPS e.max ceramic discs, measuring 8mm in diameter and 0.7 mm in thickness, were fabricated and divided into three groups (n=7) for the application of Choice 2 total-etch light-cure resin cement, RelyX U200 dual-cure self-adhesive resin cement, and SpeedCEM self-cure self-adhesive resin cement. The ceramic discs in each group were cemented on the prepared facial surface of bovine teeth. The color parameters were assessed using a spectrophotometer. Subsequently, the samples were subjected to accelerated aging for 100 hours, and the color parameters were measured again. The data were analyzed using two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tamhane’s post-hoc test (P<0.05).Results:Aging significantly affected the ceramic laminate color parameters in all three groups (P<0.05). SpeedCEM cement showed the lowest color stability (ΔE=4.2) after aging, and its color change was clinically unacceptable (ΔE>3.5). The color change of the other two groups was clinically acceptable (1<ΔE<3.5).Conclusion:The self-adhesive dual-cure cement showed color stability comparable to that of the total-etch light-cure cement for cementation of IPS e.max ceramic laminates. The color stability of both cements was superior to that of the self-adhesive self-cure cement.

Simplified Surface Treatments for Ceramic Cementation: Use of Universal Adhesive and Self-Etching Ceramic Primer.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the shear bond strength of resin cement and lithium disilicate ceramic after various surface treatments of the ceramic. Sixty blocks of ceramic (IPS e.max Press, Ivoclar Vivadent) were obtained. After cleaning, they were placed in polyvinyl chloride tubes with acrylic resin. The blocks were divided into six groups (n=10) depending on surface treatment: H/S/A - 10% Hydrofluoric Acid + Silane + Adhesive, H/S -10% Hydrofluoric Acid + Silane, H/S/UA - 10% Hydrofluoric Acid + Silane + Universal Adhesive, H/UA- 10% Hydrofluoric Acid + Universal Adhesive, MBEP/A - Monobond Etch & Prime + Adhesive, and MBEP - Monobond Etch & Prime. The light-cured resin cement (Variolink Esthetic LC, Ivoclar Vivadent) was inserted in a mold placed over the treated area of the ceramics and photocured with an LED for 20 s to produce cylinders (3 mm x 3 mm). The samples were subjected to a shear bond strength test in a universal test machine (Instron 5965) by 0.5 mm/min. ANOVA and Tukey tests showed a statistically significant difference between groups (p<0.05). The results of the shear strength test were H/S/A (9.61±2.50)A, H/S (10.22±3.28)A, H/S/UA (7.39±2.02)ABC, H/UA (4.28±1.32)C, MBEP/A (9.01±1.97)AB, and MBEP (6.18±2.75)BC. The H/S group showed cohesive failures, and the H/UA group was the only one that presented adhesive failures. The conventional treatment with hydrofluoric acid and silane showed the best bond strength. The use of a new ceramic primer associated with adhesive bonding obtained similar results to conventional surface treatment, being a satisfactory alternative to replace the use of hydrofluoric acid.

Do lithium disilicate ceramic manufacturing techniques affect the degree of conversion of light-cured resin cement?

The aim of this study is to evaluate the degree of conversion of light-cured resin cement subjected to activation through the interposition of lithium disilicate ceramic produced according to two manufacturing techniques. Cylindrical specimens of RelyX™ Veneer resin cement were generated based on each manufacturing technique (CAD/CAM—computer aided design/computer assisted manufacturing, n = 5 or pressed ceramic technique, n = 5). Next, the specimens were washed in distilled water, dried with absorbent paper and stored in containers filled with distilled water at 37 °C for 24 h. Specimens from each group were subjected to attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) in order to evaluate their degree of conversion. Data about the degree of conversion (%) were subjected to analysis of variance and to Student’s t-test (α = 0.05%). The degree of conversion of RelyX™ Veneer was statistically higher in the CAD/CAM manufacturing technique (39.83 ± 0.35%) than in the Press one (37.59 ± 0.62%). The light-cured resin cement activated through ceramic structure reinforced with lithium disilicate generated through the CAD/CAM manufacturing technique showed higher degree of conversion than the one generated through the Press manufacturing technique.

Does a Self-etching Ceramic Primer Improve Bonding to Lithium Disilicate Ceramics? Bond Strengths and FESEM Analyses.

To compare the effect of hydrofluoric acid (HF) vs self-etching ceramic primer on resin cement microshear bond strength (μSBS) and ultramorphology of lithium disilicate (LD) ceramic. LD (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) blocks (14×4×2 mm3) were polished to 1200 grit and assigned to nine groups (n=5): CON: control, no LD surface treatment; IVO: 5.0% HF (IPS Ceramic Etching Gel, Ivoclar Vivadent); VIT: 5.0% HF (Vita Ceramics Etch, VITA Zahnfabrik); FGM: 5.0% HF (Condac Porcelana, FGM); ULT: 9.0% HF (Porcelain Etch, Ultradent); PRM: 9.6% HF (Premier Porcelain Etch Gel, Premier); BIS: 9.5% HF (Porcelain Etchant, Bisco Inc); DEN: 10.0% HF (Condicionador de Porcelanas, Dentsply Brazil); and MEP: self-etching ceramic primer (Monobond Etch & Prime, Ivoclar Vivadent). For all HF groups and control, an MDP-containing silane solution (MB+, Monobond Plus, Ivoclar Vivadent) was applied on rinsing the HF gel and air drying. Three transparent matrices for each specimen were filled with light-cured resin cement (Variolink Veneer, Ivoclar Vivadent). After storage in water for 48 hours at 37°C, specimens were tested in shear mode to measure μSBS. Mode of failure was analyzed at 50×. Statistical analysis included one-way analysis of variance and the Duncan post hoc test (α=0.05). Thirty-six additional LD specimens were assigned to the same experimental groups (n=4) and observed under a field-emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) at magnifications ranging from 10,000× to 100,000×. IVO resulted in statistically higher mean μSBS than all the other groups. MEP resulted in statistically lower μSBS than all HF groups. The failure mode for MEP was predominantly adhesive. The most frequent failure mode for the HF groups was mixed. CON resulted in 100% pretesting failures. For FESEM, no retentive pattern was observed for CON specimens. MEP resulted in the least pronounced etching pattern, few areas around crystals exhibited a slight increase in retention pattern compared to the control group. All HF gels created microporosities on the LD surface with distinct etching patterns. VIT and DEN resulted in an LD ultramorphology that suggested overetching. HF etching followed by a silane solution resulted in higher bond strengths than a self-etching ceramic primer. Some HF gels may cause overetching of the LD intaglio surface.

Does the Translucency of Novel Monolithic CAD/CAM Materials Affect Resin Cement Polymerization with Different Curing Modes?

The translucency of CAD/CAM blocks influences the polymerization efficiency of resin cement used underneath. The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of the translucency parameters (TPs) of current monolithic CAD/CAM blocks on the microhardness of light-cured or dual-cured resin cement. 100 specimens were prepared from five types of CAD/CAM blocks (Mark II, Suprinity, Enamic, e.max, Ultimate), and their TP values were measured by spectrophotometry; 100 resin cement specimens (Duolink) were cured underneath five ceramic specimen groups by indirect LED light for 40 seconds with dual-cure (with catalyst) and light-cure (without catalyst) polymerization modes. Control group resin cement specimens (n = 20) were cured with both polymerization modes by direct LED light without any ceramic disc, making 120 resin cement specimens in total. The specimens were then stored in a dry environment for 24 hours before measurement of the polymerization depth with a digital micrometer. Vickers hardness measurements were performed at different resin cement sections. The results were statistically analyzed with 1-, 2-, and 3-way ANOVA, Student's t-test and Tukey's HSD test (α = 0.05). The highest TP values occurred for Suprinity and Ultimate, whereas the lowest TP value occurred for Enamic (p < 0.01). The depth of cure and Vickers hardness values changed proportionally with TP value. In all specimens, dual polymerization provided higher depth of cure and Vickers hardness values than those obtained using light polymerization (p < 0.01). In all specimens except Enamic, the hardness value differences between the sections were statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). In Enamic, the hardness values for both polymerization types decreased significantly in the deeper sections (p < 0.01). Lower depth of cure was observed as the amount of transmitted light decreased in the investigated materials. In clinical practice, light-cured resin cements may result in inadequate polymerization for ceramic materials with lower TP values. Zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate and nanoceramic resins may be reliable restorative materials for a restoration with both optimal esthetics and sufficient mechanical strength resulting from proper polymerization.

Effect of Surface Coating on Bond Strength between Etched Feldspar Ceramic and Resin-Based Luting Agents.

This study evaluated adhesive protocols (silane, silane and unfilled resin, and universal adhesive) of bond strength between feldspar ceramic and resin-based luting agents (RBLAs). Thirty ceramic disks were embedded into acrylic resin, polished, etched, and randomly divided into 6 groups: S-RC: silane (S) and light-cured resin cement (RC) (RelyX Veneer; 3M ESPE); SB-RC: S followed by bond (B) (Clearfil SE Bond, Kuraray) and RC; UA-RC: universal adhesive (UA) (Single Bond Universal; 3M ESPE) and RC; flowable composite resin (F) was used on groups S-F, SB-F, and UA-F, and luting agent cylinders were built. The response variables (n=20) were microshear bond strength (MPa), characteristic strength (σ0, MPa), and Weibull modulus (m). The RC groups presented similar bond strengths regardless of whether or not bond was used. The S-F group with only silane application showed the highest bond strength, while the universal adhesive showed the lowest bond strength. The reliability was only affected in the UA-RC group, which was lower than the S-F group. Silane application is fundamental since the universal adhesive only decreased the bond strength between the feldspar ceramic and the RBLAs. Overall, the use of unfilled resin did not positively influence bond strength.

Esthetic rehabilitation with ultra-thin ceramic veneers and direct mock-up in the treatment of dental erosion – Case Report

Dental erosion is a high prevalence condition characterized by the loss of dental substance due to chemical agents. It can also be associated with physical wear, affecting function and aesthetics. Ceramic veneers can provide effective solutions to patients affected by erosive disorders, by means of an indirect approach and minimal intervention. Recent advances in cementation techniques and ceramic materials have allowed their use in reduced thicknesses, known as "dental contact lenses" or "ultra-thin veneers". They contribute significantly to the preservation of the dental structures, having excellent mechanical properties and providing satisfactory aesthetic solutions. Their manufacture requires rigorous planning and the use of three-dimensional models or mock ups in order to preview the final outcome. Case: The aim of this report is to communicate the use of this technique for the treatment and successful 12-months follow-up of a patient affected by dental erosion of the maxillary central incisors. Special interest was placed on direct mock-up, which is a simple technique not requiring laboratory steps. Luting of the lithium disilicate veneers was carried out with a light-curing resin cement and try-in pastes, yielding a very satisfactory result. Conclusion: Diagnosis and early treatment of this disorder allows the application of conservative techniques, such as ultra-thin veneers, which are seen as a promising alternative treatment to full coverage restorations and traditional ceramic veneers.

Effect of Ceramic Thickness on the Degree of Conversion of Two Shades of Light Cured Resin Cements under Different Lithium Silicate Ceramics

Effect of Ceramic Thickness on the Degree of Conversion of Two Shades of Light Cured Resin Cements under Different Lithium Silicate Ceramics