The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of polishing procedures on the color stability of different types of composites after aging. Forty disk-shaped specimens (Ø10×2 mm) were prepared for each composite resin type (an ormocer, a packable, a nanohybrid, and a microhybrid) for a total of 160 specimens. Each composite group was divided into four subgroups according to polishing method (n=10): control (no finishing and polishing), polishing disk, polishing wheel, and glaze material. Color parameters (L*, a*, and b*) and surface roughness were measured before and after accelerated aging. Of the polishing methods, glazed specimens showed the lowest color change (∆E*), ∆L*, and ∆b* values (p<0.05). Of the composite resins, the microhybrid composite showed the lowest ∆E* value, whereas the ormocer showed the highest (p<0.05). For all composite types, the surface roughness of their control groups decreased after aging (p<0.05). In conclusion, all composite resins showed color changes after accelerated aging, with the use of glaze material resulting in the lowest color change.

Laser etching has an effect on the mineral content of dentin. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mineral content of dentin prepared at three different power settings with an erbium, chromium:yttrium scandium gallium garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser. The enamel of five, lower, wisdom, molar teeth was removed to expose the dentin surface. Four dentin slabs were obtained, then each tooth was randomly divided into four portions (groups 1 W, 2 W, 3 W and control) so that we could evaluate the effect of laser treatment. The Er,Cr:YSGG laser used for the study had a pulse duration of 140 micros, a pulse repetition rate of 20 Hz and a power output range of 0 W to 6 W. Laser energy was delivered through a fiberoptic system to a sapphire tip terminal 6 mm long and 600 microm in diameter, using a non-contact mode. The levels of five elements: magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), potassium (K), and sodium (Na), in each slab were measured by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). There were significant differences between the groups (1 W, 2 W, 3 W and control) for Ca, Mg, Na, P and Ca/P ratio (P<0.05); however, there were no significant differences for K (P=0.43). Laser treatment at 1 W significantly affected the mean percentage weight of all element groups except K. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) photographs indicated that the surface irregularities increased with increasing power setting.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of three provisional cements and two cleaning techniques on the final bond strength of porcelain laminate veneers. Methods: The occlusal third of the crowns of forty molar teeth were sectioned and embedded in autopolymerizing acrylic resin. Dentin surfaces were polished and specimens were randomly divided into four groups (n=10). Provisional restorations were fabricated and two provisional restorations were cemented onto each tooth. Restorations were fixed with one of three different provisional cements: eugenol-free provisional cement (Cavex), calcium hydroxide (Dycal), and light-cured provisional cement (Tempond Clear). Provisional restorations were removed with either a dental explorer and air-water spray, or a cleaning bur (Opticlean). In the control group, provisional restorations were not used on the surfaces of specimens. IPS Empress 2 ceramic discs were luted with a dual-cured resin cement (Panavia F). Shear bond strength was measured using a universal testing machine. Data were statistically analyzed by ANOVA, Tukey’s HSD and Dunnett tests. Surfaces were examined by scanning electronic microscopy. Results: Significant differences were found between the control group and both the light-cured provisional cement groups and the eugenol-free provisional cement-cleaning bur group (P<.05). Groups that had received light-cured provisional cement showed the lowest bond strength values. Conclusions: Selection of the provisional cement is an important factor in the ultimate bond strength of the final restoration. Calcium hydroxide provisional cement and cleaning with a dental explorer are advisable. (Eur J Dent 2011;5:373-379)

Both the Clearfil and Ceramic repair systems used in the study allow for successful repairs.

Facial defects resulting from neoplasms, congenital malformations, or trauma can be restorated with facial prostheses using different materials and retention methods to achieve a lifelike look and function. For the successful result, a lot of factors as harmony, texture, color matching, and blending of tissue interface of prosthesis is important. This clinical report describes treatment using a silicone prosthesis with a mechanical - retentined design for a patient who received a partial rhinectomy. Defects resulting from diseases as squamous cell carcinoma can be managed with the prosthetic rehabilitation so that the patient more comfortably and confidently resumed regular daily activity. Mechanical retention alone was sufficient to retain the prosthesis; thus, prosthetic adhesives were not necessary.