Longevity Of Restorations Research Articles

Comparative Evaluation of Different Intra-orifice Barriers on the Microleakage of Endodontically Treated Roots Obturated with Gutta-percha “An In-vitro Study”

Aim: To comparatively evaluate various Intra-Orifice barriers (IOB) namely; Cention N (Ivoclar Vivadent), Biodentine (Septodont), Light Cured GIC (GC Gold Label 2LC) and Tetric N Flow (Ivoclar Vivadent) for their effects on the microleakage of endodontically treated teeth.
 Study Design: In-vitro study.
 Place of Study: Department of Endodontics and conservative dentistry, Himachal dental college, Sundarnagar, Himachal Pradesh.
 Materials and Methods: Seventy-five mandibular premolars were decoronated to a standardized length, prepared and obturated with Gutta-Percha and AH Plus sealer. Except for control specimens, the coronal 3-mm gutta-percha was removed and filled with different Intra-orifice barrier materials. The specimens (75) were divided into five groups (n = 15) on the basis of the Intra-Orifice barrier material used. Group 1: Control, Group 2: Cention N, Group 3: Biodentine, Group 4: Light Cured GIC, Group 5: Tetric N Flow. In experimental groups, 3 mm of coronal gutta-percha was removed and replaced with the study material. Samples were submerged in 2% methylene blue dye in vacuum for one week. Specimens were longitudinally sectioned and leakage measured using a 50X stereomicroscope and graded for depth of leakage.
 Results: In the present study microleakage of roots were significantly affected by the type of Intra-Orifice barrier used and the following pattern was observed: Tetric N Flow > Biodentine >Light Cured GIC > Cention N>Control.
 Conclusion: The present study concluded that Intra-Orifice barrier placement provides better coronal seal, prevents microleakage, and enhance the longevity of postobturation restorations, Tetric N Flow proved to be the best followed by Biodentine, Light Cured GIC and Control group.

Research Progress and Clinical Application of All-Ceramic Micro-Veneer.

Anterior teeth problems affect the patient's daily eating, communication, social activities, self-confidence, and mental health. The trend in dentistry is to address anterior tooth problems with minimally invasive and aesthetic treatments. With the development of adhesive materials and ceramics, micro-veneers have been proposed as an alternative treatment for enhancing the aesthetic appearance and avoiding unnecessary tooth reduction. A micro-veneer is a veneer that can be cemented to the surface without or with minimal tooth preparation. These benefits include no need for anesthesia, postoperative insensitivity, good adhesion to enamel, reversibility of treatment, and higher patient acceptance. However, the micro-veneer repair is suitable only for specific cases and must be strictly controlled regarding indication. Treatment planning is a crucial step to achieving functional and aesthetic rehabilitation, and following the clinical protocol is helpful for the longevity and success of micro-veneer restorations. However, more precise and predictable tooth preparation methods, such as minimally invasive microscopic tooth preparation and digitally guided veneer preparation, are recommended rather than the traditional free-hand method. Therefore, this paper clarifies micro-veneers and compares them with other restorations to gain a deeper and more comprehensive understanding. The authors also review indications, materials, cementation, and effect evaluation of micro-veneers to provide clinicians with valuable information. In conclusion, micro-veneers are minimally invasive treatments that provide good restoration results when used appropriately and are worthy of promotion for the aesthetic restoration of anterior teeth.

Are universal adhesives in etch-and-rinse mode better than old 2-step etch-and-rinse adhesives? One-year evaluation of bonding properties to dentin

ObjectivesThis study compared the bonding properties of dentin of three 2-step etch-and-rinse adhesives (2-ERAs) to those of three universal adhesives (UAs) applied with an etch-and-rinse strategy (ER), immediately and after 1 year of water storage. MethodsSixty caries-free molars were divided into 6 groups according to the adhesive systems used (n = 10). The 2-ERA systems included were: 1) Adper Single Bond 2 (SB), 2) Tetric N-Bond (TB), and 3) Ambar (AM); and the UAs systems were: 4) Single Bond Universal (SBU) 5) Tetric N-Bond Universal (TBU), and 6) Ambar Universal (AMU). The occlusal third of each tooth was removed and the adhesives were applied. After the composite build-up, specimens were sectioned and tested for microtensile bond strength (µTBS) and nanoleakage (NL) immediately and after 1 year of water storage. In situ degree of conversion (DC) was only evaluated in the immediate time. For water sorption (WS), solubility (SO), and mass change (MC) tests, 48 disk-shaped specimens were prepared (n = 8) and assessed according to ISO 4049:2009. ResultsUAs showed higher µTBS and lower NL values than 2-ERAs did after 1 year of water storage (p = 0.001). Regarding DC, 2-ERAs showed higher DC values than UAs (p = 0.001). Regarding WS, 2-ERAs showed higher WS values than those of UAs (p = 0.00001), except for AM and AMU. Lower WS was observed for AM than for other 2-ERAs (p = 0.00001). ConclusionThe use of UAs applied with the ER strategy seems to be a more effective technique for maintaining adhesion to dentin substrate than 2-ERAS. Clinical significanceThis study may support clinicians in selecting the most adequate adhesive system to be used in ER strategy in dentin, demonstrating that UAs were more effective, considering the longevity of the resin restorations.

Repair Versus Replacement of Failed Restorations

Detailed criteria are needed to establish what constitutes failures which call for replacement or repair of restorations. Many factors play a role in the selection of repair as an alternative to replacement of failed restorations, including the clinical condition, the restorative material involved, and cost/benefit assessments. The advantages of repair of localised defects include saving of tooth structure and increased longevity of restorations at a low cost.

Marginal Integrity of Class-I Restorations, Restored with Amalgam and Bonded Amalgam; A Comparative Study

Objective: To compare the marginal integrity of Class-I amalgam and bonded amalgam restorations in maxillary and mandibular molars at seven days, three, six and twelve-months intervals.
 Study Design: Comparative prospective study.
 Place and Duration of Study: Department of Operative Dentistry, Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry, Rawalpindi Pakistan,from Jul 2017 to Jul 2018.
 Methodology: A total number of 114 patients of either gender with an age range of 14-45 years having Class-I cavities in first and second maxillary and mandibular molars on both sides were equally distributed in two groups. Group-A received conventional Amalgam, and Group-B received bonded amalgam restorations. All the fillings were placed and carved using routine instruments used for amalgam restorations, and the restorations were polished after 24 hours. The patients were initially evaluated for marginal ditching around restorations with the help of a dental mirror and explorer at seven days,followed by inspection at 3, 6 and 12 months.
 Results: Of the 114 participants, all showed excellent marginal integrity at seven-days intervals regardless of the restorative material used. However, marginal integrity deteriorated swiftly with time among those 57(50%) participants who acquired conventional Amalgam. Marginal integrity at 3, 6 and 12-months period was 51(89.5%), 35(61.4%) and 17(29.8%), respectively.Bonded amalgam restorations performed superiorly with 100%, 56(98.2%) and 43(75.4%) successful marginal integrity at 3, 6 and 12-months, respectively.
 Conclusion: Bonded amalgams can be a better substitute than non-bonded amalgam restorations with superior longevity in marginal integrity.Keywords: Amalgam, Bonded amalgam, Marginal integrity, Micro-leakage, Marginal deterioration, Restoration longevity.

Attitude of graduate dental students in The Netherlands towards rubber dam use

The use of rubber dam isolation during restorative procedures is often used. This survey study analyzed several aspects of the use of rubber dam isolation of fifth and sixth year's dental students at three Dutch universities using the COM-B model. This model explains behavior (B) from 3 factors: capacity (C), opportunity (O), and motivation (M). In the period of February-August 2022, a total of 81 students completed the survey (Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam, ACTA, n = 25; Radboud University, RU, n=28; Center for Dentistry and Oral Hygiene, CTM, n = 28). There were significant differences on all 3 factors between universities. RU students felt more confident than CTM students in applying the rubber dam in the anterior zone. At RU, teachers were significantly less likely to encourage the use of rubber dams. CTM students were more likely to assess the use of rubber dams as more important in the longevity of direct restorations (motivation). Students struggled the most with rubber dam use in subgingival cases and would like that their teachers were more adept in manipulation of soft tissues. Within the Netherlands, the education in rubber dam use should focus more on practical skills in these subgingival cases, including soft tissue handling.

Dexamethasone-doped nanoparticles improve mineralization, crystallinity and collagen structure of human dentin

ObjectivesBioactive materials have been used for functionalization of adhesives to promote dentin remineralization. This study aims to evaluate bonding ability and both mechanical and chemical behavior of demineralized dentin infiltrated with polymeric nanoparticles doped with dexamethasone (Dex-NPs). MethodsDentin conditioned surfaces were infiltrated with NPs, Dex-NPs or Dex-Zn-NPs. Bonded interfaces were also created and stored for 24 h or 21d, and then submitted to microtensile bond strength testing. Dentin remineralization was analyzed by Nanohardness, Young's modulus and Raman analysis. ResultsAt 21d of storage, dentin treated with undoped-NPs attained the lowest nanohardness and Young's modulus. Dex-NPs and Zn-Dex-NPs increased dentin nanohardness and Young's modulus after 21d Raman analysis showed high remineralization, crystallinity, crosslinking and better structure of collagen when functionalized Dex-NPs were present at the dentin interface. ConclusionsInfiltration of dentin with Dex-NPs promoted functional remineralization as proved by nanomechanical and morpho-chemical evaluation tests. Dexamethasone in dentin facilitated crystallographic maturity, crystallinity and improved maturity and secondary structure of dentin collagen. Clinical significanceUsing dexamethasone-functionalized NPs before resin infiltration is a clear option to obtain dentin remineralization, as these NPs produce the reinforcement of the dentin structure, which will lead to the improvement of the longevity of resin restorations.

Cochlear Implantation after Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Vestibular Schwannoma: Initial Hearing Improvement and Longevity of Hearing Restoration.

The following research question was asked: In patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS) that underwent stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and cochlear implantation, were improvements in hearing function observed, and what was the cochlear implant (CI) failure rate of in these patients? PubMed/Medline, CINAHL (EBSCOhost), and Web of Science articles without restrictions on publication dates were searched. Inclusion criteria required that the article was a report, a series, or a retrospective review with individual case data available. Non-English articles were excluded. Inclusion criteria required that patients were with VS and underwent subsequent SRS and cochlear implantation. Patients receiving microsurgery or stereotactic radiotherapy on the ipsilateral ear were excluded from this study. Included studies were evaluated using full-text evaluation, and data on study characteristics (author names, gender), clinical data (syndromic information, SRS modality), hearing outcomes, and device failure were extracted. Means and averages were obtained for all continuous variables. Percentages were ascertained for all categorical variables. The majority of patients undergoing CI placement in VS treated with SRS achieved open-set speech perception (79.2%) or environmental sound awareness (6.8%). Twelve implants (20.3%) failed. Three patterns were associated with failure: 1) immediate-onset failure, 2) initial benefit with delayed failure, 3) poor local control with device explantation.

Clinical longevity of extensive direct resin composite restorations after amalgam replacement with a mean follow-up of 15 years

ObjectivesThe aim of this retrospective clinical study was to determine the survival of extensive direct resin composite restorations after amalgam replacement on vital molars and premolars after a mean observation period of 15 years. MethodsBetween January 2007 and September 2013, a total of 117 extensive cusp replacing direct resin composite restorations were placed in 88 patients in a general dental practice. These were indicated for replacement of existing amalgam restorations. Tooth vitality, the absence of at least one cusp in premolars, and at least two cusps in molars were considered for inclusion. The long-term follow-up of the restorations, re-evaluated after up to 17 years using the original evaluation criteria is reported. Results81 of 88 patients (92.1%) and 106 of 117 restorations (90.6%) were available for follow-up. The cumulative success rate was 62.0% (95% CI: 47.3–76.2, AFR 2.79%) after a mean observation time of 163.4 months, the cumulative survival rate was 74.7% (95% CI: 59.8–89.6%, AFR: 1.70%) after a mean observation time of 179.1 months. The number of cusps replaced in premolars had a statistically significant influence on the success and survival rate of the restorations (HR of respectively, 2.974 and 3.175, p = <0.0005). Premolars with two cusps replaced had 297% more chance of failure than premolars with one cusp replaced. ConclusionsExtensive direct resin composite restorations placed after amalgam replacement showed good survival after a mean observation period of 15 years. The number of cusps involved had a statistically significant influence on the longevity of the restorations in premolars. Clinical SignificanceWith good survival and low annual failure rates, direct resin composite restorations are a suitable treatment for repairing extensive defects in posterior teeth involving multiple cusps and surfaces, provided that they are placed by a dentist who has long experience and is skilled in the placement of direct composite materials.

Longevity of composite restorations is definitely not only about materials.

This review study provides an overview of factors that influence the longevity of all types of direct resin composite restorations. A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for articles reporting data from primary longitudinal clinical studies on composite longevity published 2011-2021. Prospective or retrospective studies with restorations in permanent dentition, with follow-up periods of at least 5 years were included. In total, 33 articles were included with different study designs, practice settings, datasets, countries of origin, and sample sizes. Annual failure rates of restorations ranged from 0.08% to 6.3%. Survival rates varied between 23% and 97.7%, success rates varied between 43.4% and 98.7%. Secondary caries, fractures, and esthetic compromise were main reasons for failures. Risk factors for reduced restoration durability included patient-level factors (e.g., caries risk, parafunctional habits, number of check-ups per year, socioeconomic status), dentist factors (different operators, operator's experience), and tooth/restoration factors (endodontic treatment, type of tooth, number of restored surfaces). Patient gender and the composite used generally did not influence durability. A number of risk factors are involved in the longevity of composite restorations. Differences between composites play a minor role in durability, assuming that materials and techniques are properly applied by dentists. Patient factors play a major role in longevity. The decision-making process implemented by dentists relative to the diagnosis of aging or failed restorations may also affect the longevity of restorations. Clinicians should treat patients comprehensively and promote a healthy lifestyle to ensure longevity.

Longevity and Clinical Performance of Direct Posterior Restorations

Various materials and techniques are employed, with composite resins being a popular choice. Factors influencing restoration longevity include material selection, practitioner skill, patient factors, and cavity characteristics. Recent developments in dental materials and techniques have expanded treatment options. Amalgam has historically exhibited superior longevity but faces declining usage due to aesthetic concerns. Composite resins have shown variable longevity, influenced by factors such as cavity location and size. Glass ionomer cements, while biocompatible, have limited mechanical strength. Tunnel restorations and atraumatic restorative treatment restorations have shown varying success rates. Advances in materials, techniques, and bonding agents are shaping the landscape of adhesive dentistry. Adhesive dentistry has evolved significantly with the decline of amalgam and the emergence of innovative materials. Challenges like polymerization shrinkage persist, but promising developments, such as low-shrinking monomers and nanoparticle fillers, are on the horizon. Self-etching adhesives have improved bonding. The longevity of posterior restorations depends on various factors, and practitioners must stay updated on these advancements for optimal patient care.Various materials and techniques are employed, with composite resins being a popular choice. Factors influencing restoration longevity include material selection, practitioner skill, patient factors, and cavity characteristics. Recent developments in dental materials and techniques have expanded treatment options. Amalgam has historically exhibited superior longevity but faces declining usage due to aesthetic concerns. Composite resins have shown variable longevity, influenced by factors such as cavity location and size. Glass ionomer cements, while biocompatible, have limited mechanical strength. Tunnel restorations and atraumatic restorative treatment restorations have shown varying success rates. Advances in materials, techniques, and bonding agents are shaping the landscape of adhesive dentistry. Adhesive dentistry has evolved significantly with the decline of amalgam and the emergence of innovative materials. Challenges like polymerization shrinkage persist, but promising developments, such as low-shrinking monomers and nanoparticle fillers, are on the horizon. Self-etching adhesives have improved bonding. The longevity of posterior restorations depends on various factors, and practitioners must stay updated on these advancements for optimal patient care.

The Longevity and Clinical Performance of Direct and Indirect Restorations, Including Amalgam, Composite, Ceramic, and Metal Restorations

The longevity of dental restorations depends on patient-related, dentist-related, and material-related factors. Patientrelated factors include restoration size, chewing habits, oral hygiene, and systemic conditions. Strength, wear resistance, water tolerance, dimensional stability, and colour stability are all material-related variables. When deciding on a course of treatment, dentists must take these things into account. Since the 19th century, dental amalgam, which is composed of mercury, silver, tin, copper, and other metals, has been used effectively. Although it has limits in terms of tooth colour matching, it is appropriate for Class I and II restorations. Amalgam offers good load-bearing qualities, wear resistance, and tolerance for various clinical conditions. Safety concerns include the release of mercury vapor and the possibility of localized allergic reactions. Resin-based composites are esthetic and safe materials used for anterior and small to moderate-sized posterior fillings. Postoperative tooth sensitivity and shrinkage-related issues can occur, but improvements have minimized these problems. Adequate field control is essential for successful placement. Indirect restorative materials include all-ceramic and base metal casting alloys. All-ceramic restorations provide excellent aesthetics, high strength, and biocompatibility. However, they rely on resin-based cements and adhesives for retention, and allergies can occur. Base metal alloys offer an economical alternative and are effective for crown-and-bridge restorations. The choice of restorative materials depends on various factors, and dentists must consider the specific needs of each patient to achieve successful outcomes.

Microleakage Assessment of Composite Restorations in Class V Cavities by Using Different Techniques – An In Vitro Study

Background Till date no restorative material has the capability to completely bond to the tooth structure without forming marginal gaps. This article describes about different restorative techniques in placing composite to reduce polymerization shrinkage.Aims and objectives The purpose of this study was to compare and evaluate microleakage of Class V cavities restored with two different techniques using dye penetration method and to determine better technique for placing composites which can increase the longevity of restoration by minimizing polymerization shrinkage.Methods Thirty extracted human premolar teeth were selected and Class V cavities were prepared. They were then randomly divided into two groups Group A- Snow plow technique and Group B- Control group. Composite restorations were done using two different techniques. All the samples were thermocycled and subjected to cyclic loading. Nail polish varnish was applied were immersed in dye for 24 hours and were sectioned buccolingually into two halves. The sectioned samples were subjected to stereomicroscopic investigation and depth of dye penetration was analysed according to scoring system. Statistical analysis using Statistical Package for Social Science SPSS software was done.Results No statistical variance was found in the microleakage scores between Group A and Group B and between the two techniques followed for restoration. Conclusion Placement of thin film of flowable composite under main bulk fill composite in Class V cavities did not decrease the microleakage rates resulting in decreased longevity of restorations

Chapter 9.4: Operative Treatment and Monitoring of Coronal Caries in Daily Practice.

After the caries lesion reaches a certain extent of tooth structure loss, a restoration is often needed to repair the defect. Operative interventions in cariology aim to aid biofilm removal and lesion arrest by cavity sealing, avoid pulpal damage, and restore form, function, and esthetics. There are no clear evidence-based parameters to determine the most appropriate treatment option for each clinical situation. Despite of this, direct composite resins have been the preferable restorative treatment. Scientific literature shows that composites and adhesive strategies play a minor role in treatment success. Patient-related risk factors (mainly those associated with lifestyle and health choices), in addition to the dentist's decision-making process, play a significant role in longevity of the restorations, which tend to fail for the same reasons that lead to the need for restoration (dental caries, tooth/restoration fracture, and esthetics). Therefore, monitoring old restorations in clinical service, even if those present clear signs of degradation, is possible and reasonable within the concept of minimal intervention in dentistry. Unnecessary reinterventions are harmful and costly to health systems, and the clinician's efforts must be directed to eliminating or reducing the etiological factors that can cause the restoration to fail. Thus, patient risk factors assessment is a crucial point in monitoring restorations. Clinician should - whenever possible - postpone operative reinterventions, monitoring the etiological factors that may compromise the restoration's longevity. Also, when operative reintervention is necessary, refurbishment, polishing, and repair should be prioritized over replacement.

Longevity of Posterior Composite Restorations and Their Reasons for Failure: A Systematic Review

Longevity of Posterior Composite Restorations and Their Reasons for Failure: A Systematic Review

Microleakage Among Different Dental Restorative Materials: Causes, Detection, and Impact on Marginal Integrity

Dental restorative materials are essential components in the field of dentistry, serving as compounds or substances used to address a wide spectrum of dental concerns, including cavities, tooth decay, fractures, and cosmetic enhancements. These materials, encompassing amalgam, composite resins, glass ionomer cement, and compomers, are carefully selected based on their specific properties and the requirements of the restorative procedure. However, dental restorations are intricate processes influenced by patient factors and material behaviour, which can lead to various complications. Among these, microleakage emerges as a prevalent and multifaceted issue, with causes ranging from polymerization shrinkage during material curing to thermal changes, cyclic loading, and moisture contamination. The consequences of microleakage are far-reaching, encompassing clinical challenges such as the development of secondary caries, tooth sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and the potential for restoration failure. The susceptibility to microleakage varies among different dental restoration materials, with amalgam typically exhibiting lower susceptibility compared to more modern alternatives like composite resins and compomers. Glass ionomer cement, when employed with appropriate moisture control, can demonstrate improved resistance to microleakage over time. Detecting microleakage necessitates various methods, including radiography, dye penetration tests, electron microscopy, and microcomputed tomography. Effective prevention and management strategies involve the use of modern adhesive systems, precise restoration techniques, and patient education on maintaining optimal oral hygiene. Continual advancements in dental materials and techniques further contribute to the ongoing efforts to mitigate the challenges posed by microleakage in the ever-evolving landscape of modern dentistry, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and ensuring the longevity and success of dental restorations while prioritizing overall oral health.

An Overview of Antibacterial Dental Restorative Materials

Antibacterial dental restorative materials (ADRM) have been developed to prevent or treat dental caries and other infections. Glass ionomer cements (GICs), composite resins, calcium hydroxide-based materials, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), bioactive glasses, silver-containing materials, quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), chlorhexidine, nanoparticles, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) are common types of ADRMs. They have antibacterial properties due to the release of fluoride ions, QACs, silver nanoparticles, calcium and hydroxyl ions. ADRMs can prevent tooth decay, promote healing of pulp tissue and regenerate damaged tissues. Researchers are exploring new agents like nanoparticles and antimicrobial peptides to improve the antibacterial properties of ADRMs. PDT is a promising technology for improving the antibacterial properties of dental restorative materials. Antibacterial bioactive dental materials like bioactive glasses, calcium phosphate-based materials, hydroxyapatite-based materials, antibacterial peptides, and silver-containing materials have been developed to provide an additional layer of protection against infection and improve the longevity of dental restorations.

Evaluation of the marginal fit of full contoured zirconia, lithium disilicate and metal crowns fabricated using CAD-CAM: An in vitro study.

The marginal fit of any dental restoration is vital to its long-term success. Lack of adequate fit is potentially detrimental to both the tooth and the supporting periodontal tissues. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the marginal fit of monolithic zirconia, monolithic lithium disilicate and monolithic metal crowns and compare the three groups. The study was conducted by fabricating ten samples for each group, total of 30 samples. A premolar stainless steel die was used to standardize the preparation. PVS putty material was used to make impressions of the model and was poured using type IV die stone. The samples were all fabricated using CAD-CAM. The marginal gap was measured by SEM, and the results were analysed using SPSS software. The mean marginal gap of zirconia, metal and lithium disilicate crowns was 79.49 μm, 46.83 μm and 70.79 μm, respectively. The metal group showed the lowest marginal gap among the groups. This difference in marginal fit is due to the sintering process where the organic binders in soft metal burn out and the metallic powder particles are being sintered (caked) without creating a fused phase. Marginal fit plays a very important role in the long-term success of a crown. Discrepancy in marginal fit results in food and plaque accumulation causing caries and periodontal breakdown, eventuating the failure of the restoration. A perfect marginal fit would enhance the longevity of any indirect restoration. Knowledge about which indirect restoration has the best marginal fit is critical.

Fiber-Reinforced Composites in Dentistry: Enhancing structural integrity and aesthetic appeal

This review explored the recent advancements in fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) within the context of restorative dentistry. Dental composites have undergone significant transformations, with FRCs emerging as a groundbreaking development at the intersection of aesthetics and mechanical performance. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative strategies employed in FRCs to address the challenges of polymerization shrinkage, wear resistance, mechanical strength, and aesthetics. FRCs, composed of fiber reinforcements strategically aligned within a resin matrix, offer enhanced flexural strength, fracture toughness, and wear resistance, essential for the longevity of dental restorations. The review further explored the dynamic relationship between fiber alignment and restoration design, highlighting the adaptability of FRCs for varied applications, from post and core restorations to bridges and splints. Through an intricate interplay of materials science and clinical demands, FRCs have revolutionized dental composites by seamlessly integrating form and function. This review underscores the transformative potential of FRCs in restorative dentistry, shedding light on the path to enhanced clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction

Characterization of whitening toothpastes and their effect on the physical properties of bulk-fill composites

To characterize activated charcoal and 2% hydrogen peroxide-based toothpastes and investigate their effects on roughness, color change, and gloss of bulk-fill composite resin. Composite resin specimens (Aura Bulk Fill, SDI) were subjected to 5,000 brushing cycles with regular toothpaste (Colgate Total 12, [RT]), activated charcoal toothpaste (Bianco Dental Carbon, [AC]), or hydrogen peroxide-containing toothpaste (Colgate Luminous White Advanced, [HP]), with or without coffee exposure. The pH, particle characterization by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and weight% of solid particles in the toothpaste were assessed. Roughness (Ra) was evaluated using a surface profile-measuring device, color change (∆Eab/∆E00) by reflectance spectrophotometer, and gloss unit (GU) by glossmeter. Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn, Friedman, and Nemenyi tests were used, and the correlation coefficient test was performed between Ra and GU (α=0.05). RT presented a higher Ra after brushing and did not change after staining with coffee; moreover, the ∆Eab/∆E00 values were higher for RT than HP. Regarding gloss, AC and HP obtained higher values compared to RT. A significant negative correlation between gloss and Ra was found for RT exposed to coffee. All toothpastes had a neutral pH; however, RT had the largest percentage of solids by weight. SEM images showed particles of many sizes: irregular shape (RT), more regular particles (AC), and spherical clusters (HP). Although surface roughness, color change, and gloss may compromise the longevity of restorations, the whitening toothpastes tested did not promote more morphology changes than regular toothpastes.