Sof-Lex Discs Research Articles

Staining susceptibility of dental composite resins with various nano-filler technologies

Background: Discoloration of dental composite restoration is a common problem that usually results in refurbishing or replacement or even removal of the restoration. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the color stability of polished composite resin material with different filler technologies. Methodology: Three composites were studied; Filtek™ Z350 XT (3M, ESPE, St. Paul, USA) [Group-I] that has nano-cluster filler particles, Brilliant EverGlow™ (Coltene/Whaledent® AG, Altstatten, Switzerland) [Group-II] which consists of submicron barium glass fillers and pre-polymerized fillers and Ceram.X® Sphere TEC™ (Dentsply, Konstanz, Germany) [Group-III] with advanced granulated filler technology composite. Twenty standardized composite discs were prepared with each composite resin, and it was polished with Sof-Lex disks (3M, ESPE, St. Paul, USA). The baseline color was then recorded using a spectrophotometer (X-Rite PANTONE® iPro-2, Michigan). Eight samples from each group were then subdivided and immersed into freshly prepared solutions of turmeric, coffee, and four samples into distilled water for a total period of 3 hours/day for 30 days. Following this, the color was again recorded. Statistical analysis: The change in color (ΔE) was calculated, and the data obtained were subjected to Kruskal Wallis and Mann Whitney test. Results: A significant difference was seen between the staining characteristics of Group-III and Group-I (p<0.05). The mean color change in the values was highest in Ceram.X that was clinically unacceptable (ΔE>3.3). Conclusion: Though all composites revealed color changes after their immersion into the staining solutions, the amount of stain varied based on their constituents and filler characteristics.

Materials and methods used for adhesive remnant removal and polishing of enamel after orthodontic treatment: areview

Brackets are generally debonded and remaining adhesive is removed at the end of the orthodontic treatment. There are different methods for adhesive removal of which few methods have a chance of damaging enamel and roughen the tooth surface which can lead to plaque accumulation, discolouration, and aesthetic problems. Enamel polishing after debonding is one strategy to decrease such consequences. Severalenamel cleaning and polishing methods include Sof-Lex discs, TC burs, ultrasonic tools, hand instruments,rubbers, composite burs, Arkansas stones, green stones, diamond burs, steel burs and lasers. Each method has some advantages and some lacunae. To be precise soflex discs and TC burs have less damage on enamel than other methods, i.e., Arkansas stone and greenstone. This article is a review of available different enamel cleaning and polishing methods after debonding, their advantages and disadvantages.

Use of nano-hydroxyapatite serum and different finishing/polishing techniques to reduce enamel staining of debonding after orthodontic treatment : Arandomized clinical trial.

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of nano-hydroxyapatite serum and different finishing, polishing techniques on color alterations of enamel caused by debonding procedures after comprehensive orthodontic treatment by use of aspectrophotometer. This randomized clinical trial recruited 20participants with previous non-extraction orthodontic treatment and acceptable hygiene to evaluate enamel staining after orthodontic debonding. The usage of acarbide bur alone, as the conventional method, and the combination use of carbide burs and Sof-Lex discs (3M™ ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA) were compared to each other followed by 10days application of nano-hydroxyapatite after debonding. Then the enamel staining was evaluated by areflectance spectrophotometer in three periods: immediately, and 2and 4months after debonding. The comparison of the groups showed asignificant interaction between Sof-Lex groups and the control side after the first interval of the study (p = 0.042). Application of nano-hydroxyapatite demonstrated no significant difference in color parameters between upper and lower arches of the participants at all intervals of this study (p > 0.05). The mean total color change (ΔE) in all groups and between all intervals had been clinically perceptible (ΔE > 3.3). The applied concentrations of nano-hydroxyapatite had no significant effect in reducing tooth color changes after debonding in orthodontic treatment. Sof-Lex discs can significantly reduce tooth color changes in ashort time.

The Assessment of the Abrasiveness for Resin Composite Finishing & Polishing Systems

Objective: This in vitro study was aimed to assess the abrasiveness of 4 different composite finishing and polishing systems, on two different nano-hybrid composite materials.
 Methods: 40 composite disc samples were prepared 4 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness for each nano-hybrid resin composite (Tetric EvoCeram BulkFill A1 body and IPS Empress Direct A1; Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Lichtenstein; n=80 in total). Each composite group was divided into 4 finishing and polishing system subgroups (Sof-Lex Disc, 3M, St. Paul MN, USA; Enhance&Pogo, Dentsply Sirona, Konstanz, Germany; OptraGloss, Ivoclar Vivadent, Shaan, Lichtenstein; Twist Dia, Kuraray Noritake, Tokyo, Japan; n=10 for each subgroup). Single surface of each sample was roughened with 600 and 800 grit sandpapers (Carbimet, Special Silicone Carbide Grinding Paper, IL, USA), respectively. Initial thickness (t1) was measured for each sample with a digital micrometer (BMI 770150, Germany). Then, 4 different finishing&polishing systems were preformed for one side of the samples, at 10 000 rpm, in dry conditions, by a single operator (30 s for a single materal). Final thicknesses (t2) were measured after finishing&polishing procedures. Statistical analyses were performed regarding t2-t1 values. Two-way Anova test was used to assess the level of abrasion for the composite and finishing&polishing materials. Tukey HSD was used for multiple comparisons.
 Results: In terms of composite materials, IPS Empress Direct presented significantly a greater level of abrasion (52.85 ± 42.26B) than Tetric Evo Ceram Bulk Fill (p < 0.001). In terms of finishing & polishing materials, significantly a greater level of abrasiveness was observed for Sof-Lex Disc (91.25 ± 47.22b) among all (p < 0.001). There was no significant differences in abrasiveness, between Enhance&Pogo - Optragloss (p = 0.859), Enhance&Pogo - Twist Dia (p = 0. 891), and Twist Dia – Optragloss (p = 0.440).
 Conclusion: Both the type of composite and the finishing & polishing material were considered effective factors for abrasion. The greatest level of abrasiveness was observed for the 4-step Sof-Lex Disc system (91 µm on average), for the total 120 seconds of application. The abrasiveness for the 2-step systems was similar and ranged between 24 – 36 µm on average, for 60 seconds of application. IPS Empress Direct presented a greater level of abrasion than Tetric Evo Ceram Bulk Fill on equal terms of finishing & polishing.

Effect of Polishing Systems on the Surface Roughness of Nano-Hybrid and Nano-Filling Composite Resins: A Systematic Review.

Background: The polishing of surface roughness is an important characteristic of composite resins and is directly related to the longevity of the restoration and patient comfort. Different polishing systems utilize different protocols, as reported in the literature. This systematic review (SR) aimed to synthesize and analyze the available scientific evidence about the effect of polishing systems on the surface roughness of nano-hybrid and nano-filling composite resins. Methods: The study protocol of this SR was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews -PROSPERO- (CRD4201705653). A search was conducted in PubMed-Medline, Scopus, LILACS, EMBASE, for the period 2007–2020. Quality appraisal and a descriptive analysis of the papers that met the inclusion criteria were conducted. Results: 18 records were included. Seven polishing systems (PS) of one step were found, seven PS of two steps, eight PS of three steps, three PS of four steps, and four PS of five steps. Polishing protocols (PP) varied, with application times ranging from 10 s to 60 s with speeds between 10,000 and 30,000 RPM. Regarding composition, the aluminum oxide was one of the most important components used to achieve a smooth surface. Conclusions: Multistep polishing systems were the most effective (i.e., Astropol and Sof-Lex Discs).

Er,Cr:YSGG Laser as a Means of Orthodontic Adhesive Removal: Myth or Reality?

Objective: This study aimed to compare the effect of Er,Cr:YSGG laser with a tungsten carbide bur in orthodontic finishing on the enamel surface roughness and the heat generated in the pulp chamber. Methods: Before bonding, of 125 intact extracted premolar teeth, 15 teeth were randomly assigned to the control group. Of the remaining 110 bonded teeth, 50 were used to determine the laser parameters, and 60 were included in the main in vitro study. After debonding, the teeth were randomly distributed among four study groups (n = 15) for finishing with laser beams (Er,Cr:YSGG, Waterlase) with and without polishing with Sof-Lex discs, and finishing with a bur (tungsten carbide, Reliance) with and without polishing with Sof-Lex discs. The thermal changes were measured during finishing using a thermo-controller-coupled thermocouple placed in the pulp chamber. Enamel surface roughness was evaluated qualitatively under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and quantitatively under an atomic force microscope (AFM). Results: The thermal changes of the bur group were significantly higher than those in the laser group (p = 0.0001). Quantitatively, the surface roughness values of all the study groups were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05), with no significant difference between the study groups (p > 0.05). SEM analysis confirmed the AFM measurements. Conclusions: Er,Cr:YSGG can be recommended as an alternative for a carbide bur for adhesive agent removal after orthodontic debonding, considering its mild thermal effect on the pulp. Polishing with Sof-Lex discs did not significantly reduce the surface roughness, regardless of the finishing procedure.

Comparison of enamel surface roughness and color alteration after bracket debonding and polishing with 2 systems: A split-mouth clinical trial

This split-mouth randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the enamel surface roughness (SR) and color alteration after bracket debonding and polishing using 2 systems. After removal of excess adhesive using a 12-blade tungsten carbide bur on a low-speed handpiece, a randomized polishing procedure using Sof-Lex discs was applied on 1 side (n=36) and Sof-Lex Spiral Wheels on the contralateral side (n=36). Dental replicas were obtained with epoxy resin before bracket bonding and after tooth polishing. The SR was evaluated using a profilometer. The color was assessed using an Easyshade spectrophotometer before bracket bonding, immediately after tooth polishing, and 30days after polishing. Two-way analysis of variance and t tests were applied for statistical analysis. The SR of enamel showed similar results between the polishing systems (P=0.309) and between moments (before bracket bonding and after tooth polishing) (P=0.317). The color change was also similar between the polishing systems (P>0.05). The Sof-Lex discs and Sof-Lex Spiral Wheel polishing systems used after removal of excess adhesive using a 12-blade tungsten carbide bur on a low-speed handpiece did not appear to significantly damage the enamel surface, and the color change was similar between them.

Effect of different resin removal methods on enamel after metal and ceramic bracket debonding : An in vitro micro-computed tomography study.

The aim of this study was to conduct an in vitro evaluation of the effects of different adhesive debonding and polishing techniques performed after metal and ceramic bracket removal on enamel using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). This study was performed on 42 extracted maxillary first premolars divided into 2main groups and 6subgroups as follows: metal (group1) or ceramic (group2) brackets were bonded to the teeth, then, after debonding, one of three different methods was used to remove the residual adhesive: tungsten carbide burs with pumice(A), fiber-reinforced composite burs and polishing paste(B), or Sof-Lex discs(C; 3M Dental, St Paul, MN, USA). The samples were evaluated by micro-CT before bracket bonding (T0) and after resin removal (T1). Demineralization area, demineralization depth, demineralization volume, mineral density, and mineral volume were measured. At T1, demineralization area was significantly larger in groups1A and2A compared to groups1B, 1C, 2B, and2C (P = 0.001). Group2A (ceramic bracket/tungsten carbide-pumice) had the highest demineralization volume (P = 0.001). When the groups were compared in terms of change from T0 to T1, groups1A and2A showed significantly larger changes in demineralization area compared to the other 4groups (P = 0.001). The increase in demineralization volume was larger in group2A compared to all other groups (P = 0.001). All resin removal methods damaged the enamel surface to varying degrees. Regardless of bracket type, the use of tungsten carbide and pumice should be avoided when cleaning the tooth surface after debonding. Use of composite burs and Sof-Lex discs in particular after the debonding of ceramic brackets will help minimize damage.

Efficiency of different instruments used for composite filling polishing.

Abstract Introduction: Improper finishing and polishing of fillings leads to surface roughness of the restoration which leads to excessive plaque accumulation, gingival irritation, increased surface staining and poor aesthetics of restored teeth. Therefore, it is essential to use polishing instruments and pastes as a final step of simple caries treatment in order to achieve optimal long-time results. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of 4 different finishing and polishing instruments used for surface smoothening of aesthetic restorative materials in vitro. Materials and methods: 40 composite (Reality X) samples were prepared in vitro. Their surface irregularities were measured along 3 diagonals before and after polishing. Sof-Lex discs (3M Espe), rubber cones (Kenda), Arkansas stone (Fino) and polishing paste and a professional toothbrush (Kerr) were used for polishing. Each sample was polished under 5N pressure for 30 seconds at 3000 rpm. The surface roughness was than measured using a profilometer. Statistic analysis was performed using ANOVA and unpaired T-tests, the significance level was set at a value of p&lt;0.05. Results: Based on the mean values, the smallest roughness was found in the control group- 0.11, while the highest in the rubber polishers and Arkansas stone group- 0.47 and 0.48. The values for the Sof-Lex disc group and the polishing paste-toothbrush group were 0.40 and 0.39. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences between the four groups. Conclusion: It is mandatory to use polishing tools in order to obtain a smooth surface of the restoration and avoid the unwanted long-term complications. Polishing using brush and abrasive paste produced the smoothest surface of the composite.

Surface roughness and gloss of polished nanofilled and nanohybrid resin composites

Background/purposeThere is limited literature on the polishability of new launched nanofilled and nanohybrid. The aim of this study is to evaluate the polishability of nanofilled and nanohybrid composites by measuring surface roughness and gloss values and explore the surface qualities of composite before and after polishing in vitro.Materials and methodsOne nanofilled resin composite, two nanohybrid resin composites and one microhybrid resin composite were selected. All specimens were light cured against celluloid matrix strips. Then surface roughness(Ra) and gloss(GU) values were tested as negative control. Specimens were roughened with a 600-grit silicon carbide paper for 30 s to serve as positive control and then polished with Sof-Lex polishing disk system. Mean Ra and GU values of each step were measured with a profilometer and a small-area glossmeter. The surface qualities were observed by scanning electron microscope.ResultsRa values of polished surfaces were significantly higher than negative control and lower than positive control(P < 0.05). All materials showed no significant difference on Ra values after polishing(P > 0.05). GU values of polished surfaces were significantly lower than negative control and higher than positive control(P < 0.05). After polishing the microhybrid resin composite showed lower GU values than nanofilled and nanohybrid resin composite groups. The SEM images showed surface textures and irregularities were corresponded to the results of surface roughness and gloss.ConclusionNo significant differences were noted on surface roughness among nanofilled, nanohybrid, and microhybrid composites after polishing with Sof-Lex disc system. Microhybrid composite presented lower gloss values than nanofilled and nanohybrid resin composites.

Visually acceptable gloss threshold for resin composite and polishing systems

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to compare dentists’ perceptions of gloss values of composite specimens with increased levels and to identify the gloss value considered to be clinically acceptable. MethodsDisk-shaped composite specimens were finished and polished 3 ways: metallurgically using silicon carbide papers and alumina paste, manually using Enhance finisher and PoGo polisher (EP) (Dentsply Sirona), and manually using Sof-Lex (SLex) disks (3M). Specimens were produced with surface gloss ranging from 0 through 100 gloss units (GU) in increments of approximately 10 GU as measured with a glossmeter. A GU of 0 was nonglossy, and a GU of 100 was perfectly glossy. Ten dentists evaluated the specimens, ranking them in order from low to high gloss and in 4 groups: low (dull or rough), medium (moderate gloss, clinically unacceptable), high (glossy, clinically acceptable), and superior gloss. The authors performed Spearman correlation analysis (α = 0.05). ResultsFor each finish and polish method, there was an excellent correlation between the machine-measured (actual) gloss ranks and the clinician-evaluated gloss ranks (r2 ≥ 0.95). There was no difference in perception of surface gloss of the composite when metallurgically polished (with silicon carbide papers and alumina paste) or polished with EP to the same GU. There was a slight difference in gloss perception when comparing the 2 different commercial polishing systems. ConclusionsTen dentists consistently perceived gloss of 40 through 50 GU as clinically acceptable. However, the composite was considered clinically acceptable at a lower gloss (40 GU) when polished with SLex disks than when polished with EP or metallurgically (50 GU). Practical ImplicationsGloss values of 40 through 50 GU are considered to be clinically acceptable for resin composites.

A comparative study on the effect of polishing systems on the color and surface texture of different porcelain systems - feldspathic, pressable, and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing.

Aim:To find and compare the qualitative and quantitative change in color and surface texture of feldspathic ceramic, pressable ceramic and ceramic used in computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing CAD/CAM after different surface treatments namely glazing, abrading and polishing. To compare the effectiveness of pearl finish polishing paste and Soflex polishing system used in the study.Setting and Design:In-vitro, comparative study.Materials and Methods:Disc-shaped feldsapathic, pressable, CAD/CAM ceramic specimens were fabricated. Surface roughness and color parameters Δ L*, Δa*, and Δ b* were measured before glazing, after glazing, after abrasion with 02 diamond bur and after polishing with two different polishing systems. Surface roughness was measured qualitatively using scanning electron microscopy and quantitatively using an optical profilometer. The value of color parameters was obtained using a colorimeter. Data were statistically analyzed with ANOVA.Statistical Analysis Used:SPSS software 20.0 version (IBM, New York, United states of America).Results:Unglazed feldspathic, pressable and CAD/CAM porcelain specimens showed a mean surface roughness value of 2.73 ± 0.38, 3.54 ± 1.42, and 3 ± 1.74 specimens. After glazing and polishing, the surface roughness values decreased. After abrasion, surface roughness values increased. Polishing did not alter the color along the red green axis and yellow blue axis.Conclusions:Abraded specimens of feldspathic, pressable and CAD/CAM after polishing using pearl finish polishing paste and Soflex disc became smoother than glazed specimens. When pearl finish polishing paste and Soflex discs were compared for their effectiveness the former appeared to be more superior but not to a significant level. Mechanically altering feldspathic, pressable, and porcelain used in CAD/CAM technology does not cause any change in shade.

Effects of Orthodontic Adhesives on Dental Enamel Color Alteration Using Chemically Cured and Light-Cured Composites.

Objectives:The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the color alteration of dental enamel following the use of light-cured and chemically cured composites for bonding of metal brackets.Materials and Methods:Sixty extracted human premolars divided into five groups (n=12) were included in this study. Metal brackets were bonded using chemically cured (System 1+ and Unite) and light-cured (Transbond XT and Grengloo) composites. The control group remained untreated. After 72 hours of immersion in a staining solution and 24 hours of photoaging, the brackets were debonded, and adhesive remnants were cleaned using a 12-blade tungsten carbide bur and polished with Sof-Lex discs. The color was assessed at the baseline and after cleaning procedures in accordance with the CIE L*a*b (lightness, red/green, blue/yellow) color system. Statistical analyses were performed using paired sample t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).Results:The L*, a*, and b* parameters showed a significant increase in all adhesive groups (P<0.001). The experimental groups showed significant color changes (P<0.05), and the mean ΔE ranged from 2.46 to 3.15 units. No significant difference was found between the ΔE of the adhesive groups (P>0.05).Conclusion:The enamel color change is influenced by bonding and debonding procedures. Chemically cured and light-cured composites have similar effects on dental enamel color alterations.

Effects of toothbrushing on surface characteristics of microhybrid and nanofilled resin composites following different finishing and polishing procedures

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effects of simulated tooth brushing (STB) on the surface roughness of microhybrid and nanofilled resin composites following different finishing and polishing procedures. Materials and methodsNinety cylindrical-shaped specimens of Filtek Supreme XT (a universal nano resin composite) and Filtek Z250 (a universal microhybrid resin composite) were prepared. The specimens were allocated at random into 9 paired groups each of 10 specimens. The finishing and polishing systems included were Tungsten Carbide bur (TC); Diamond bur (Db); Sof-Lex discs (S); PoGo discs (PG); TC + S; Db + S; TC + PG; Db + PG. Polymerisation against a Mylar strip without finishing and polishing acted as the control. Surface roughness was measured using a 3D non-contact optical profilometer and surface morphology was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Specimens were subjected to the equivalent of four years STB and surface roughness was measured again. ResultsMylar formed surfaces were the smoothest for both composites before and after STB. Finishing with the diamond finishing bur caused significantly greater surface irregularity (p < 0.0001) before and after STB compared to the tungsten carbide bur. The surface treatment with Db + PG resulted in significantly greater surface roughness following STB than all other regimes of finishing and polishing (p < 0.01). ConclusionWhere indicated clinically, finishing is better conducted using a tungsten carbide bur rather than a diamond finishing bur. The combination of tungsten carbide bur/Enhance PoGo and tungsten carbide bur/Sof-Lex surface protocols produced a similarly smooth finish for both composites. The composite surfaces in all groups increased in surface irregularity following STB. Clinical significanceWhilst finishing using a tungsten carbide finishing bur followed by either the Sof-Lex or PoGo polishing system may be found to result in a smooth surface finish, all the surfaces investigated increased in surface roughness following toothbrushing.

Comparison of the Enamel Surface Roughness from Different Polishing Methods: Scanning Electron Microscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy Investigation.

Objective This study aimed to compare the enamel surface roughness created by four polishing methods after debonding, by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Materials and Methods Four experimental polishing groups (Sof-Lex disc, SD; sandblaster, SB; tungsten carbide bur, TB; and white stone bur, WB) and one control group were selected from 100 premolars ( n = 20/group). The experimental teeth were bonded with a bracket, thermocycled, and debonded. Residual adhesive was removed by either of the respective methods. Pre and postdebonding root mean square (Rq) values were obtained from AFM evaluations. All specimens were examined and evaluated with SEM using a modified enamel surface index (modified ESI). Statistical Analysis Differences among the polishing methods were compared with analysis of variance and Fisher’s least significant difference test at p < 0.05. Results Both microscopic evaluations indicated that the surface with the greatest roughness herein belonged to the SD group, followed by that for SB, TB, and WB groups. AFM measurements indicated a maximum postdebonding Rq herein for the WB group and a significantly greater surface roughness for the TB and WB groups than for the SD and SB groups. Among the experimental groups, SEM followed by modified ESI evaluations revealed similar data to those obtained with AFM. Significant differences were seen among all paired groups, except for that between the SB and TB groups. Conclusion Within the limitations of this study, all four polishing methods were concluded to be clinically acceptable for removing residual orthodontic adhesives.

The effect of various mechanical and chemical surface conditioning on the bonding of orthodontic brackets to all ceramic materials

Background/purposeIncreasing the bond strength between the orthodontic brackets and all-ceramic materials is one of the challenges facing orthodontists. The purpose of this study is to assess the shear bond strength (SBS) of metal brackets to two types of all ceramic materials using various surface mechanical and chemical conditioning methods. Materials and methodsSixty ceramic blocks were prepared using two types of all ceramic materials (IPS e.max and VITA Suprinity® PC) and treated with 3 surface treatments; surface etching with 9.6% hydrofluoric acid (HFA) for 2 mins; surface roughening with Sof-Lex finishing discs; and surface roughening with Sof-Lex finishing discs and etching with HFA. Metal brackets were attached to the surface of the ceramic blocks using light cure orthodontic adhesive. Samples were subjected to 2000 thermo-cycles (5–50 °C) and the SBS was assessed using Instron machine. The adhesive remnant index (ARI) was evaluated under light microscope. Descriptive and group comparison were calculated using Two-way ANOVA, Post-hoc Tukey's and Chi-square tests and significance level set at (P < 0.05).Results: surface roughening of both ceramic materials with Sof-Lex discs and HFA resulted in a significant increase in SBS compared to other experimental groups (P < 0.05). However, VITA Suprinity ceramic prepared with Sof-Lex discs only showed the lowest SBS. The distribution of the ARI scores was significantly different between the groups (P < 0.05). ConclusionSurface preparation of all ceramic materials with Sof-Lex discs and hydrofluoric acid combination produces the highest SBS to metallic orthodontic brackets.

Comparative effect of three polishing systems on porcelain surface roughness after orthodontic bracket debonding and composite resin removal: An atomic force microscopy

Purpose: Porcelain polishing after orthodontic bracket debonding and resin removal is imperative to eliminate surface roughness and minimize the risk of plaque accumulation, periodontal disease, and porcelain discoloration. This study aimed to assess the effect of three polishing systems on porcelain surface roughness after orthodontic bracket debonding. Materials and Methods: Thirty porcelain blocks were divided into three groups. Surface roughness of the samples was first measured using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and recorded as baseline. Orthodontic brackets were bonded to blocks by composite resin. After bracket debonding, resin remnants were removed by tungsten carbide bur. The blocks were then polished with Sof-Lex discs, Meisinger, and Jota porcelain polishing kit. Surface roughness was measured again using AFM. The Shapiro–Wilk test, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey’s post hoc test were used for data analysis through SPSS version 18.0. Level of significance was set at 5%. Results: The mean change in surface roughness after polishing with Jota kit (56.6 nm) was significantly greater than that compared to Sof-Lex discs (10.7 nm) (P = 0.003) and Meisinger kit (26.6 nm) (P = 0.024). The mean change in surface roughness was not significantly different between Sof-Lex and Meisinger groups. Surface roughness significantly increased in all three groups (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Meisinger polishing kit and Sof-Lex discs were not significantly different in terms of the resultant surface roughness. Thus, the conventional use of Sof-Lex discs seems to be more cost-effective due to their lower cost.

Evaluation of Surface Roughness of Composite, Compomer and Carbomer After Curing Through Mylar Strip and Glycerin: A Comparative Study

Aim: To compare the effect of mylar strip and glycerin topical application on the surface roughness of composite, compomer, and carbomer during polymerization. Materials and Method: Each of 45 disc-shaped specimens of Z250, Dyract, Carbomer, were prepared according to manufacturer’s instructions and molded in silicone rubber molds by one operator (5 mm diameter × 2 mm thickness; n = 135). Each restorative group was divided into 3 groups as oxygen group (control), mylar strip, and glycerin group (n = 15). In the control group, specimens were light cured in the open air for 40 s, whereas in the test groups they were covered either with a mylar strip or a drop of glycerin solution and cured for 40 s. Glycerin was rinsed off before polishing. Sof-Lex discs were used for polishing before the surface roughness measurements by a profilometer. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using two-way analysis of variance at a confidence level of 95% ( P &lt; .05). Results: The mean surface roughness values of composite, compomer, and carbomer polymerized in air, through mylar strip and glycerin showed no statistically significant difference ( P &gt; .05). Conclusion: Mylar strip and glycerin application did not affect the surface roughness of the composite, compomer, and carbomer. Polishing may mask the effect of different curing conditions.

Effect of Polishing Systems on Fluoride Release and Surface Roughness of Different Restorative Materials

Secondary caries is an important factor in the replacement of the restorations, and it is thought that fluoride-releasing materials may prevent this problem. Furthermore, the fluoride release of the materials may be increased by polishing process. Available knowledge about the effect of polishing systems (PS) on the fluoride release of materials is limited. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of PS on the fluoride release of fluoride-containing materials. Restorative materials were divided into 6 groups: Fuji IX GP, Fuji II, Dyract XP, Beautifil II, Beautifil-Bulk, and Filtek Ultimate. Each group was also divided into four subgroups: Mylar strip, Sof-Lex Discs, Sof-Lex Diamond, and OneGloss. Fluoride release was determined using a fluoride ion-selective electrode. Surface roughness was evaluated with a profilometer. Two-way repeated measure and one-way ANOVA tests were used for statistical analysis. The initial rapid fluoride release was observed only in Fuji IX. The PS increased the fluoride release of Fuji IX and Fuji II and Dyract XP materials while reducing the fluoride release of resin-based materials. The highest surface roughness values were obtained with OneGloss. Further, a significant relationship between fluoride release and surface roughness was found. The polishing provides an increase in fluoride release, especially in glass-ionomer-based materials. This article revealed that there is a relationship between fluoride release and surface roughness. Proper PS must be chosen according to the material to provide the best clinical benefits in terms of fluoride release and surface roughness.

Effect of two polishing systems on color and surface roughness of feldspathic porcelain following orthodontic bracket debonding and composite resin removal

Objectives Orthodontic bracket removal from a porcelain crown can roughen the surface and lead to plaque accumulation, discoloration, and esthetic problems. Porcelain polishing after debonding is one strategy to decrease such consequences. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of two polishing systems (Sof-Lex discs and Meisinger polishing system) for correction of surface roughness and discoloration of porcelain after orthodontic bracket debonding. Materials and Methods Twenty porcelain blocks were evaluated in two groups of 10. First, the baseline surface roughness and color parameters of the samples were measured using atomic force microscopy and spectrophotometry, respectively. After bracket bonding, a fine cutter was used for bracket debonding, and resin remnants were removed by a tungsten carbide bur and low-speed handpiece. Samples were then polished using Sof-Lex discs (group 1) and Meisinger porcelain polishing kit (group 2). Surface roughness and color parameters were measured again. Data were analyzed using SPSS 18 through the Shapiro–Wilk test, Student’s t-test, and paired t-test at 5% level of significance. Results Porcelain color change (ΔE) was significantly greater in the Meisinger system than Sof-Lex (P &lt; 0.001). The Rq, Ra, and Rt surface roughness parameters significantly increased in both the groups after the intervention compared to baseline (P &lt; 0.05), but the two groups were not significantly different in this respect after the polishing procedures (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusion The porcelain color after polishing with Sof-Lex discs was closer to the baseline. Furthermore, the two systems were not significantly different regarding surface roughness. However, Sof-Lex discs may be recommended due to lower cost.