This case report compared the effectiveness of resin infiltration technique (Icon, DMG) with microabrasion (Opalustre, Ultradent Products, Inc.) in management of white spot lesions. It demonstrates that although neither microabrasion nor resin infiltration technique can remove white spot lesions completely, resin infiltration technique seems to be more effective than microabrasion. Therefore resin infiltration technique can be chosen preferentially for management of white spot lesions and caution should be taken for case selection.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation with hypersensitivity mode on microtensile bond strength of composite resin. Twenty extracted permanent molars were randomly assigned to six groups, according to the irradiation of Er,Cr:YSGG laser, adhesive system (Optibond FL or Clearfil SE bond) and application time of etchant (15 sec or 20 sec). Then composite resin was build up on each conditioned surface. The restored teeth were stored in distilled water at room temperature for 24 h and twelve specimens for each group were prepared. All specimens were subjected to microtensile bond strength and the fracture modes were evaluated. Also, the prepared dentin surface and laser irradiated dentin surface were examined under SEM.

The results were as follows:

The microtensile bond strength of laser irradiated group was lower than that of no laser irradiated group.

This study compared the effect of an activator, intermediate bonding resin and low-viscosity flowable resin on the microtensile bond strength of a self-curing composite resin used with two-step total etching adhesives. Twenty extracted permanent molars were used. The teeth were assigned randomly to nine groups (n=10) according to the adhesive system and application of additional methods (activator, intermediate adhesive, flowable resin). The bonding agents and additional applications of each group were applied to the dentin surfaces. Self-curing composite resin buildups were made for each tooth to form a core, 5mm in height. The restored teeth were then stored in distilled water at room temperature for 24h before sectioning. The microtensile bond strength of all specimens was examined. The data was analyzed statistically by one-way ANOVA and a Scheffe's test. The application of an intermediate bonding resin (Optibond FL adhesive) and low-viscosity flowable resin (Tetric N-flow) produced higher bond strength than that with the activator in all groups. Regardless of the method selected, Optibond solo plus produced the lowest µTBS to dentin. The failure modes of the tested dentin bonding agents were mostly adhesive failure but there were some cases showed cohesive failure in the resin.

The purpose of this study was to compare the dye leakage of MTA (mineral trioxide aggregate) apical plug produced by two orthograde placement techniques (hand condensation technique and ultrasonically assisted hand condensation technique).

To simulate straight canal, 60 transparent acrylic blocks with straight canal were fabricated. These transparent acrylic blocks were divided into 2 groups (Group C; hand condensation technique (HC) and Group U; ultrasonically assisted hand condensation technique (UAHC)) of 30 blocks with each MTA application method. Each group was divided into 2 subgroups (n = 15) with different canal size of #70 (subgroup C70 and subgroup U70) and #120 (subgroup C120 and subgroup U120). After apical plug was created, a wet paper point was placed over the MTA plug and specimen was kept in a humid condition at room temperature to allow MTA to set. After 24 hours, remaining canal space was backfilled using Obtura II. All specimens were transferred to floral form socked by 0.2% rhodamine B solution and stored in 100% humidity at room temperature. After 48 hours, resin block specimens were washed and scanned using a scanner. The maximum length of microleakage was measured from the scanned images of four surfaces of each resin block using Photoshop 6.0.

Statistical analysis was performed with Mann-Whitney U test. Group U of UAHC had significantly lower leakage than Group C of HC in #70-size canal (subgroup U70) (p < 0.05).

The purpose of this study was to compare the stress distributions of NiTi rotary instruments based on their cross-sectional geometries of triangular shape-based cross-sectional design, S-shaped cross-sectional design and modified rectangular shape-based one using 3D FE models.

NiTi rotary files of S-shaped and modified rectangular design of cross-section such as Mtwo or NRT showed larger stress change while file rotation during simulated shaping.

The stress of files with rectangular cross-section design such as Mtwo, NRT was distributed as an intermittent pattern along the long axis of file. On the other hand, the stress of files with triangular cross-section design was distributed continuously.

When the residual stresses which could increase the risk of file fatigue fracture were analyzed after their withdrawal, the NRT and Mtwo model also presented higher residual stresses.

From this result, it can be inferred that S-shaped and modified rectangular shape-based files were more susceptible to file fracture than the files having triangular shape-based one.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of elastic modulus of restorative materials and the number of interfaces of post and core systems on the stress distribution of three differently restored endodontically treated maxillary second premolars using 3D FE analysis. Model 1, 2 was restored with a stainless steel or glass fiber post and direct composite resin. A PFG or a sintered alumina crown was considered. Model 3 was restored by EndoCrown. An oblique 500 N was applied on the buccal (Load A) and palatal (Load B) cusp. The von Mises stresses in the coronal and root structure of each model were analyzed using ANSYS. The elastic modulus of the definitive restorations rather than the type of post and core system was the primary factor that influenced the stress distribution of endodontically treated maxillary premolars. The stress concentration at the coronal structure could be lowered through the use of definitive restoration of high elastic modulus. The stress concentration at the root structure could be lowered through the use of definitive restoration of low elastic modulus.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of four restorative materials under various occlusal loading conditions on the stress distribution at the CEJ of buccal, palatal surface and central groove of occlusal surface of endodontically treated maxillary second premolar, using a 3D finte element analysis.

A 3D finite element model of human maxillary second premolar was endodontically treated. After endodontic treatment, access cavity was filled with Amalgam, resin, ceramic or gold of different mechanical properties. A static 500N forces were applied at the buccal (Load-1) and palatal cusp (Load-2) and a static 170N forces were applied at the mesial marginal ridge and palatal cusp simultaneously as centric occlusion (Load-3). Under 3-type Loading condition, the value of tensile stress was analyzed after 4-type restoration at the CEJ of buccal and palatal surface and central groove of occlusal surface

Excessive high tensile stresses were observed along the palatal CEJ in Load-1 case and buccal CEJ in Load-2 in all of the restorations. There was no difference in magnitude of stress in relation to the type of restorations. Heavy tensile stress concentrations were observed around the loading point and along the central groove of occlusal surface in all of the restorations. There was slight difference in magnitude of stress between different types of restorations. High tensile stress concentrations around the loading points were observed and there was no difference in magnitude of stress between different types of restorations in Load-3.

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of various dentin bonding systems on microtensile bond strength of immediate dentin sealing (IDS) and delayed dentin sealing (DDS). Eighteen extracted permanent molars were used in this study. The teeth for DDS group were restored with a provisional restorations, and immersed in saline solution for 1 week, and divided into 3 subgroups according to various dentin bonding adhesives; SB subgroup (3 step total-etch adhesive), SE subgroup (2 step self-etch adhesive), XE subgroup (1 step self-etch adhesive). In IDS group, the teeth were divided into 3 subgroups, and applied with bonding adhesives as in DDS group. The teeth were restored with provisional restorations, and immersed in saline solution for 1 week. Indirect composite disc was cemented with resin cement, and all specimens were subjected to microtensile bond strength. The data were statistically analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Student t-test.

The results were as follows:

The IDS group showed significantly higher µTBS than DDS group in 3 step total-etch and 2 step self-etch adhesive (p < 0.05).

The purpose of this study was to investigate the distribution of tensile stress of canal obturated maxillary second premolar with access cavity and notch-shaped class V cavity restored with composite resin using a 3D finite element analysis.

The tested groups were classified as 8 situations by only access cavity or access cavity with notch-shaped class VS cavity (S or N), loading condition (L1 or L2), and with or without glass ionomer cement base (R1 or R2). A static load of 500 N was applied at buccal and palatal cusps. Notch-shaped cavity and access cavity were filled microhybrid composite resin (Z100) with or without GIC base (Fuji II LC). The tensile stresses presented in the buccal cervical area, palatal cervical area and occlusal surface were analyzed using ANSYS.

Tensile stress distributions were similar regardless of base. When the load was applied on the buccal cusp, excessive high tensile stress was concentrated around the loading point and along the central groove of occlusal surface. The tensile stress values of the tooth with class V cavity were slightly higher than that of the tooth without class V cavity. When the load was applied the palatal cusp, excessive high tensile stress was concentrated around the loading point and along the central groove of occlusal surface. The tensile stress values of the tooth without class V cavity were slightly higher than that of the tooth with class V cavity.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of additional etching procedure prior to Maxcem resin cement application in indirect restoration cementation using push-out bonding strength.

One hundred and two extracted human molars were used to make indirect resin restorations of gold inlay and Synfony. These restorations were cemented using Maxcem and Variolink II. Additional etching procedures were done for one group with Maxcem. Three groups have 17 specimens in both restoration types. Push-out bond strength was measured using multi-purpose tester and calculated for bonding strength per sqaure-millimeter area. The mean bonding strength values were compared using SPSS 12.0K program for one-way ANOVA and Scheffe's Test with 95% significance.

Under the condition of this study, the additional etching procedure prior to usage of Maxcem resulted in reduced bond strength for both of restoration types.

Flexibility and fracture properties determine the performance of NiTi rotary instruments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how geometrical differences between three NiTi instruments affect the deformation and stress distributions under bending and torsional conditions using finite element analysis.

Three NiTi files (ProFile .06 / #30, F3 of ProTaper and ProTaper Universal) were scanned using a Micro-CT. The obtained structural geometries were meshed with linear, eight-noded hexahedral elements. The mechanical behavior (deformation and von Mises equivalent stress) of the three endodontic instruments were analyzed under four bending and rotational conditions using ABAQUS finite element analysis software. The nonlinear mechanical behavior of the NiTi was taken into account.

The U-shaped cross sectional geometry of ProFile showed the highest flexibility of the three file models. The ProTaper, which has a convex triangular cross-section, was the most stiff file model. For the same deflection, the ProTaper required more force to reach the same deflection as the other models, and needed more torque than other models for the same amount of rotation. The highest von Mises stress value was found at the groove area in the cross-section of the ProTaper Universal.

Under torsion, all files showed highest stresses at their groove area. The ProFile showed highest von Mises stress value under the same torsional moment while the ProTaper Universal showed the highest value under same rotational angle.

The aim of the present study is to compare the corrosion tendency using two kinds of NiTi files in the various environmental conditions through the visual examination and electrochemical analysis. ProTaper Universal S2, 21 mm (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) and Hero 642, 0.06 tapers, size 25, 21 mm (Micromega, Besancon, France) rotary instruments were tested. The instruments were randomly divided into eighteen groups (n = 5) by the immersion temperature, the type of solution, the brand of NiTi rotary instrument and the presence of mechanical loading. Each file was examined at various magnifications using Scanning Electron Microscope (JEOL, Akishima, Tokyo, Japan) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX). EDX was used to determine the components of the endodontic file alloy in corroded and noncorroded areas. The corrosion resistance of unused and used NiTi files after repeated uses in the human teeth was evaluated electrochemically by potentiodynamic polarization test using a potentiostat (Applied Corrosion Monitoring, Cark-in-Cartmel, UK).

Solution temperature and chloride ion concentration may affect on passivity of NiTi files. Under the conditions of this in vitro study, the corrosion resistance is slightly increased after clinical use.

This study was to investigate the influence of combining composite resins with different elastic modulus, and occlusal loading condition on the stress distribution of restored notch-shaped non-carious cervical lesion using 3D finite element (FE) analysis.

The extracted maxillary second premolar was scanned serially with Micro-CT. The 3D images were processed by 3D-DOCTOR. ANSYS was used to mesh and analyze 3D FE model. A notch-shaped cavity was modeled and filled with hybrid, flowable resin or a combination of both. After restoration, a static load of 500N was applied in a point-load condition at buccal cusp and palatal cusp. The stress data were analyzed using analysis of principal stress.

Results showed that combining method such that apex was restored by material with high elastic modulus and the occlusal and cervical cavosurface margin by small amount of material with low elastic modulus was the most profitable method in the view of tensile stress that was considered as the dominant factor jeopardizing the restoration durability and promoting the lesion progression.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of various occlusal loading sites and directions on the stress distribution of the cervical composite resin restorations of maxillary second premolar, using 3 dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) analysis. Extracted maxillary second premolar was scanned serially with Micro-CT (SkyScan1072; SkyScan, Aartselaar, Belgium). The 3D images were processed by 3D-DOCTOR (Able Software Co., Lexington, MA, USA). HyperMesh (Altair Engineering, Inc., Troy, USA) and ANSYS (Swanson Analysis Systems, Inc., Houston, USA) was used to mesh and analyze 3D FE model. Notch shaped cavity was filled with hybrid (Z100, 3M Dental Products, St. Paul, MN, USA) or flowable resin (Tetric Flow, Vivadent Ets., FL-9494-Schaan, Liechtenstein) and each restoration was simulated with adhesive layer thickness (40 µm). A static load of 200 N was applied on the three points of the buccal incline of the palatal cusp and oriented in 20° increments, from vertical (long axis of the tooth) to oblique 40° direction towards the buccal. The maximum principal stresses in the occlusal and cervical cavosurface margin and vertical section of buccal surfaces of notch-shaped class V cavity were analyzed using ANSYS. As the angle of loading direction increased, tensile stress increased. Loading site had little effect on it. Under same loading condition, Tetric Flow showed relatively lower stress than Z100 overall, except both point angles. Loading direction and the elastic modulus of restorative material seem to be important factor on the cervical restoration.

The purpose of this study is to compare the shear bond strength of repaired composite resin with different bonding agents and evaluate the effect of bonding agents on composite repair strength. Forty composite specimens (Z-250) were prepared and aged for 1week by thermocycling between 5 and 55℃ with a dwell time of 30s. After air abrasion with 50 µm aluminum oxide, following different bonding agents were applied (n = 10); SB group: Scotchbond multipurpose adhesive (3 step Total-Etch system); SE group: Clearfil SE bond (2 step Self-Etch system); XP group: XP bond (2 step Total-Etch system); XE group: XenoIII (1 step Self-Etch system). After bonding procedure was completed, new composite resin (Z-250) was applied to the mold and cured. For control group, 10 specimens were prepared. Seven days after repair, shear bond strength was measured. Data was statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (p < 0.05). The means and standard deviations of shear bond strength (MPa ± S.D.) per group were as follows: SB group: 17.06; SE group: 19.10; XP group: 14.44; XE group: 13.57; Control Group: 19.40. No significant difference found in each group. Within the limit of this study, it was concluded that the different type of bonding system was not affect on the shear bond strength of repaired composite resin.

This study was to investigate the influence of composite resins with different elastic modulus, cavity modification and occlusal loading condition on the stress distribution of restored notch-shaped noncarious cervical lesion using 3-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) analysis.

The extracted maxillary second premolar was scanned serially with Micro-CT. The 3D images were processed by 3D-DOCTOR. ANSYS was used to mesh and analyze 3D FE model. A notch-shaped cavity and a modified cavity with a rounded apex were modeled. Unmodified and modified cavities were filled with hybrid or flowable resin. After restoration, a static load of 500N was applied in a point-load condition at buccal cusp and palatal cusp. The stress data were analyzed using analysis of principal stress.

The results were as follows:

In the unrestored cavity, the stresses were highly concentrated at mesial CEJ and lesion apex and the peak stress was observed at the mesial point angle under both loading conditions.

The purpose of this study was to compare apical sealing ability of continuous wave canal filling technique according to various heat source plugging depths.

Eighty one extracted human premolars with straight root were cleaned and shaped to size 35 using .06 taper rotary NiTi file. After cleansing and shaping, the teeth were divided into 5 groups following the heat source probing depths from the apex; 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 mm. All specimens were filled using E&Q plus with #35 / .06 tapered gutta-percha cone. The positive control teeth were not filled. All teeth were coated with nail varnish except the apical 1 mm around the apical foramen. Negative control teeth were completely sealed include the apical foramen. All specimens were immersed in 1% methylene blue solution for 72 hours. Then the specimens were sectioned horizontally at 1, 2 and 3 mm from the root apex. Each sectioned surface was photographed using a digital camera attached to the stereomicroscope at 12.5 × 2.5 fold magnification. All points at 1, 2 and 3 mm were summed as final score of one specimen. Statistical analysis of the collected data was performed.

Under the condition of this study, there was no significant difference between the heat source plugging depths of 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 mm in apical sealing ability. All of apical heat source plugging depth from 3 to 7 mm including Buchanan's protocol -from 5 to 7 mm- seems to be acceptable in clinical application.

The purpose of this study was to compare the apical leakage of the root canal filled with the System B and the EndoTwinn (the combined application of heat and ultrasonic vibration).

Sixty extracted premolars with straight root were cleaned and shaped to size 35. Group SB was obturated using System B and Group ET was filled with EndoTwinn. A size 35 of 0.06 tapered gutta-percha and Adseal were used and the plugger which could be introduced to 4 mm short of working length was selected in the obturation procedure. As the positive control, Group PC was not filled. In Group SB, ET and PC, all external surfaces of each tooth were coated with nail varnish leaving only 1 mm area around the apical foramen. In the negative control of Group NSB and Group NET, all of external tooth surface including apical foramen was coated with the nail varnish. The specimens were immersed in methylene blue dye solution for 2 days. Then the specimens were sectioned at each 1 mm from apex to 5 mm level. The final score of one specimen was given by summing up of the points at all levels.

The dye leakage of Group ET was significantly less than that observed in Group SB (p < 0.05). And the frequency of gutta-percha pulling out from root canal when the plugger was removed was more often with the System B than with EndoTwinn but there was no significant difference.

Currently, various Nickel-Titanium rotary files are used in endodontic treatment, but there is no one perfect system that can be applied to any clinical situation. Therefore, the combined uses of various file systems which can emphasize the advantages of each system are introduced as hybrid instrumentation.

The ProTaper system is efficient in body shaping and apical pre-enlargement but is reported to have more possibility of transportation and produce more aberrations and deformation in more or less severe curved canals. Recently, new ProTaper system (ProTaper Universal) with different configuration and cross-sectional design to overcome the week points of ProTaper have been marketed.

The purpose of this study was to compare and evaluate the shaping abilities of ProTaper, ProTaper Universal system, and two hybrid methods using S-series of ProTaper Universal and Hero Shaper or ProFile.

The time lapses for instrumentation were measured and the used files were inspected for distortion. The pre- and post-instrumented root canals were scanned and superimposed to evaluate the aberrations and reduction of root canal curvature and change of radius of canal curvature. The increased canal width and apical centering ratio were calculated at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 mm levels from apical foramen.

Under the conditions of this study, the ProTaper Universal seems to have better shaping ability than ProTaper in terms of instrumented width and instrumentation time. It may be suggested that the ProTaper Universal system is efficient as much as hybrid instrumentation using ProTaper and other constant-tapered NiTi file systems in highly experienced operators.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the difference in the surface roughness after polishing and to evaluate the difference in color stability after immersion in a dye solution among four types of composite resin materials. Four light-polymerized composite resins (Shade A2) with different sized filler content (a nanofilled, a hybrid, a microfilled, a flowble) were used. Average surface roughness (Ra) was measured with a surface roughness tester (Surftest Formtracer) before and after polishing with aluminum oxide abrasive discs (Super-Snap). Color of specimens before and after staining with 2% methylene blue solution were measured using spectrophotometer (CM-3700d) with SCI geometries. The results of Ra and ΔE were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), a Scheffe multiple comparison test and Student t-test (p = 0.05). After polishing, Ra values were decreased regardless of type of composite resins. In surface roughness after polishing and color stability after staining, nanofilled composite resin was not different with other composite resins except flowable resins.

The aims of this study were to compare the shaping effect and safety between single length technique recommended by manufacturer and crown-down technique using Mtwo rotary file and to present a modified method in use of Mtwo file.

Sixty simulated root canal resin blocks were used. The canals were divided into three groups according to instrument and the manner of using methods. Each group had 20 specimens. Group MT was instrumented with single length technique of Mtwo, group MC was instrumented with crowndown technique of Mtwo and group PT was instrumented with crown-down technique of ProTaper. All of the rotary files used in this study were operated by an electric motor. The scanned canal images of before and after preparation were superimposed. These superimposed images were evaluated at apical 1 to 8 mm levels. Angle changes were calculated. The preparation time, weight loss, instrument failure and binding, canal aberrations, and centering ratio were measured. Statistical analysis of the three experimental groups was performed with ANOVA and Duncan's multiple range tests for post-hoc comparison and Fisher's exact test was done for the frequency comparison.

In total preparation time, group MT and group MC were less than group PT. In the aberrations, group MT had more elbows than those of group MC and group PT. The binding of group MC was least and group MT was less than group PT (P < 0.05).

Under the condition of this study, crown-down technique using Mtwo rotary file is better and safer method than single length technique recommended by the manufacturer.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of composite resin restorations on the stress distribution of notch shaped noncarious cervical lesion using three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis (FEA).

Extracted maxillary second premolar was scanned serially with Micro-CT (SkyScan1072; SkyScan, Aartselaar, Belgium). The 3D images were processed by 3D-DOCTOR (Able Software Co., Lexington, MA, USA). ANSYS (Swanson Analysis Systems, Inc., Houston, USA) was used to mesh and analyze 3D FE model. Notch shaped cavity was filled with hybrid or flowable resin and each restoration was simulated with adhesive layer thickness (40 µM). A static load of 500 N was applied on a point load condition at buccal cusp (loading A) and palatal cusp (loading B). The principal stresses in the lesion apex (internal line angle of cavity) and middle vertical wall were analyzed using ANSYS.

The results were as follows

1. Under loading A, compressive stress is created in the unrestored and restored cavity. Under loading B, tensile stress is created. And the peak stress concentration is seen at near mesial corner of the cavity under each load condition.

2. Compared to the unrestored cavity, the principal stresses at the cemeto-enamel junction (CEJ) and internal line angle of the cavity were more reduced in the restored cavity on both load conditions.

3. In teeth restored with hybrid composite, the principal stresses at the CEJ and internal line angle of the cavity were more reduced than flowable resin.

The purposes of this study were to examine the variability of adhesive thickness on the different site of the cavity wall when used total-etch system without filler and simplified self-etch system with filler and to evaluate the relationship between variable adhesive thickness and microtensile bond strength to the cavity wall.

A class I cavity in six human molars was prepared to expose all dentinal walls. Three teeth were bonded with a filled adhesive, Clearfil™ SE bond and the other three teeth were bonded with unfilled adhesives, Scotchbond™ Multi Purpose. Morphology and thickness of adhesive layer were examined using fluorescence microscope. Bonding agent thickness was measured at three points along the axial cavity wall, edge of cavity margin (rim), halfway down each cavity wall (hlf), internal angle of the cavity (ang). After reproducing the adhesive thickness at rim, hlf and ang, micro-tensile bond strength were evaluated.

For both bonding agents, adhesive thickness of ang was significantly thicker than that of rim and hlf (P < 0.05). As reproduced the adhesive thickness, microtensile bond strength was increased as adhesive thickness was increased in two bonding agents.

Adhesive thickness of internal angle of the cavity was significantly thicker than that of the cavity margin and the halfway cavity wall for both bonding agents. Microtensile bond strength of the thick adhesive layer at the internal angle of the cavity was higher than that of the thin adhesive layer at the cavity margin and the halfway cavity in the two bonding systems.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of various occlusal loads on the stress distribution of the buccal cervical region of a normal maxillary second premolar, using a three dimensional finite element analysis (3D FEA).

After 3D FE modeling of maxillary second premolar, a static load of 500N of three load cases was applied. Stress analysis was performed using ANSYS (Swanson Analysis Systems, Inc., Houston, USA). The maximum principal stresses and minimum principal stresses were sampled at thirteen nodal points in the buccal cervical enamel for each four horizontal planes, 1.0 mm above CEJ, 0.5 mm above CEJ, CEJ, 0.5 mm under CEJ.

The results were as follows

1. The peak stress was seen at the cervical enamel surface of the mesiobuccal line angle area, asymmetrically.

2. The values of compressive stresses were within the range of the failure stress of enamel. But the values of tensile stresses exceeded the range of the failure stress of enamel.

3. The tensile stresses from the perpendicular load at the buccal incline of palatal cusp may be shown to be the primary etiological factors of the NCCLs.

The purposes of this study were to compare the effects of one or two applications of all-in-one adhesives on microtensile bond strengths (µTBS) to unground enamel and to investigate the morphological changes in enamel surfaces treated with these adhesives using a scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Twenty-five noncarious, unrestored human mandibular molars were used. The unground enamel surfaces were cleansed with pumice. The following adhesives were applied to lingual, mid-coronal surfaces according to manufacture's directions; Clearfil SE bond in SE group, Adper Prompt L-Pop™1 coat in LP1 group, 2 coats in LP2 group, Xeno® III 1 coat in XN1 group, and 2 coats in XN2 group. After application of the adhesives, a hybrid light-activated resin composite was built up on the unground enamel. Each tooth was sectioned to make a cross-sectional area of approximately 1.0 mm² for each stick. The microtensile bond strength was determined. Each specimen was observed under SEM to examine the morphological changes. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA.

The results of this study were as follows;

1. The microtensile bond strength values were; SE (19.77±2.44 MPa), LP1 (13.88±3.67 MPa), LP2 (14.50±2.52 MPa), XN1 (14.42±2.51 MPa) and XN2 (15.28±2.79 MPa). SE was significantly higher than the other groups in bond strength (p < 0.05). All groups except SE were not significantly different in bond strength (p < 0.05).

2. All groups were characterized as shallow and irregular etching patterns.

The purposes of this study were to compare the apical terminus width of simulated curved root canal prepared with three NiTi file systems used by undergraduates for evaluation the effects of flute angle and pitch or radial land on reducing screw-in effect and to determine more safe NiTi file system for inexperienced operators.

Fifty inexperienced undergraduate students prepared 150 simulated curved root canals in resin blocks with three NiTi file systems ; ProFile®, Hero Shaper®, K3™. The electric motor set at a speed of 300 rpm and torque of 30 in a 16 : 1 reduction handpiece was used. The simulated root canal was prepared to ISO #25 sizes with each file system. The scanned images of pre- and post-instrumented canal of resin block were superimposed. To evaluate the screw-in effect of three NiTi file systems, apical terminus width of root canal was measured from superimposed images and statistical analysis was performed.

There were significant differences in three NiTi file systems. ProFile® had significantly smaller width than Hero Shaper® and K3™ (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was observed between K3™ and Hero Shaper®.

Under the condition of this study, active file system (Hero Shaper®, K3™) with variable pitch and helical angle had more screw-in effect than passive file system (ProFile®) with constant pitch and helical angle. It seems that the radial lands play more important role in reducing screw-in effect.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of excessive occlusal loading on stress distribution on four type of cervical lesion, using a three dimensional finite element analysis (3D FEA).

The extracted maxillary second premolar was scanned serially with Micro-CT. The 3D images were processed by 3D-DOCTOR. ANSYS was used to mesh and analyze 3D FE model. Four different lesion configurations representative of the various types observed clinically for teeth were studied. A static point load of 500N was applied to the buccal and lingual cusp (Load A and B). The principal stresses in lesion apex, and vertical sectioned margin of cervical wall were analyzed.

The results were as follows

The patterns of stress distribution were similar but the magnitude was different in four types of lesion.

The purposes of this study were to assess the accuracy of measurements in pre-enlarged canals with small instruments and to compare the accuracies, in enlarged canal, with small size instruments and instruments that match the actual canal diameter using Root ZX, Bingo1020, SmarPex, and e-Magic Finder. Ten extracted teeth were embedded in an alginate model made for testing apex locators. A size 10 file was placed into the root canal until the tip of the file reached the plane of the major diameter of the foramen under a dental operating microscope at the 25 × magnification. The measurement was done with digital caliper and defined as actual length. Electronic length measurement with a size 10 file in pre-enlarged canal was done by reading the index indicating Apex of each device to gain a definite value. After completion of canal enlargement to a size 45 file, each difference between actual length and electric measurement value with a size 10 and 40 files in enlarged canal was recorded as L10 and L40. The one-way ANOVA and Scheffe's multiple range tests were computed for analyze the differences among the four apex locators in the same group. The Student's t-test between L10 and L40 of each locator was done. The accuracies of electronic measurements were significantly different among the 4 devices. The file size made no difference on the accuracy of electronic measurement in enlarged canal with same device. The e-Magic Finder was the most accurate device among the 4 apex locators used in this study.

The purpose of this study was to compare the shaping ability of three Ni-Ti file systems used by dental students or the experts and consequently to aid in choosing a proper systems for educational courses of dental students and beginners.

Fifty students and ten dentists who have clinical experience over two years prepared 180 simulated root canals in resin blocks with three Ni-Ti systems; ProFile® (PF), HeroShaper® (HS), K3^TM (K3).

After preparation, the Ni-Ti files were evaluated for distortion and canal preparation time was recorded. The images of pre- and post-instrumented canals were scanned and superimposed. Amounts of increased canal widths, deviation, and centering ratio were calculated at apical 1, 3 and 5 mm levels and statistical analysis was performed.

The results were as follows:

HS showed the shortest preparation time and instrumented canal width in K3 was significantly larger than other groups (P < 0.05).

Based on the results, it is surmised that the ProFile® is the safest and most ideal instrument for students and beginners.

The purpose of this study was to compare and evaluate the shaping abilities of various hybrid instrumentation method using constant tapered file systems with ProTaper® S1 and the difference between experts and inexperienced clinicians in use of NiTi file.

Three hybrid methods used in this study were composed of ProTaper® S1 and K-Flexofile® (group S), ProTaper® S1 and HeroShaper® (group H), and ProTaper® S1 and ProFile® (group P), respectively. The ProTaper®-alone method (group C) was introduced as a control group.

After canal preparation, the lapse of time was recorded. The images of pre- and post-operative canal were scanned and superimposed. Amounts of instrumented canal widths and centering ratio were measured at apical 1, 2 and 3 mm levels and statistical analysis was performed.

In this study, both of the group C and S took more time to prepare canals than other groups. Inexperienced operators required more time for the entire preparation with the groups C and H than the experienced (p < 0.05). And the centering ratio of group P were preferable to ProTaper®-alone method or the hybrid technique using stainless steel files. As such, within experienced operators, group H also showed better results in addition to the group P.

Under these condition, the hybrid methods of each the ProFile® system and HeroShaper® with ProTaper® are recommendable comparative to ProTaper®-alone method. According to the results, the hybrid instrumentation method is a more appropriate method of canal preparation than single file system for narrow or curved canals.

The purpose of this study was to compare and evaluate the shaping ability of the three different Ni-Ti file systems used by undergraduate students.

Fifty undergraduate students prepared 150 simulated curved root canals in resin blocks with three Ni-Ti file systems - ProFile® (PF), Manual ProTaper® (MPT), Rotary ProTape® (RPT). Every student prepared 3 simulated root canals with each system respectively. After root canal preparation, the Ni-Ti files were evaluated for distortion or breakage. Assessments were made according to the presence of various types of canal aberrations. The pre- and post-instrumented canal images were attained and superimposed. The instrumented root canal width were measured and calculated for the net transportation (deviation) and the centering ratio.

Under the condition of this study, both ProTaper® systems allowed significantly more removal of root canal wall than the ProFile® system. In the important other aspects such as the centering ratio, there was no significant differences between the systems. Novice dental students were able to prepare curved root canals with any kinds of Ni-Ti file systems with little aberration and great conservation of tooth structure. Students want to learn effective methods and at the same time simple rotary procedures. The rotary ProTaper® systems were one of the most compatible to these students from the point of view of cutting ability. The ProFile® system was also compatible in safe and gentle shaping.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of multiple application of all-in-one dentin adhesive system on microtensile bond strength to caries-affected dentin.

Twenty one extracted human molars with occlusal caries extending into mid-dentin were prepared by grinding the occlusal surface flat. The carious lesions were excavated with the aid of caries detector dye. The following adhesives were applied to caries-affected dentin according to manufacturer's directions; Scotchbond™ Multi-Purpose in SM group, Adper Prompt L-Pop™ 1 coat in LP1 group, 2 coats in LP2 group, 3 coats in LP3 group, Xeno® III 1 coat in XN1 group, 2 coats in XN2 group, and 3 coats in XN3 group. After application of the adhesives, a cylinder of resin-based composite was built up on the occlusal surface. Each tooth was sectioned vertically to obtain the 1 × 1 mm² sticks. The microtensile bond strength was determined. Each specimen was observed under SEM to examine the failure mode. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA.

The results of this study were as follows;

1. The microtensile bond strength values were; SM (14.38 ± 2.01 MPa), LP1 (9.15 ± 1.81 MPa), LP2 (14.08 ± 1.75 MPa), LP3 (14.06 ± 1.45 MPa), XN1 (13.65 ± 1.95 MPa), XN2 (13.98 ± 1.60 MPa), XN3 (13.88 ± 1.66 MPa). LP1 was significantly lower than the other groups in bond strength (p < 0.05). All groups except LP1 were not significantly different in bond strength (p > 0.05).

2. In LP1, there were a higher number of specimens showing adhesive failure. Most specimens of all groups except LP1 showed mixed failure.

The purpose of this study was to compare the shaping ability of the three ProTaper® instrumentation techniques in simulated canals.

Thirty resin blocks were divided into 3 groups with 10 canals each. Each group was instrumented with manual ProTaper® (Group M), rotary ProTaper® (Group R), and hybrid technique (Group H). Canal preparation time was recorded. The images of pre- and post-instrumented root canals were scanned and superimposed. The amounts of canal deviation, total canal width, inner canal width, outer canal width and centering ratio were measured at apical 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 mm levels.

1. Canal preparation time was the shortest in R group (p < 0.05).

2. The amounts of total canal width in R group was generally larger than the other groups, but no significant differences were observed except at the 1, 3 mm levels (p > 0.05).

3. The amounts of inner canal width in R group was larger than M group at the 1 mm level and H group was larger than R group at the 6 mm level (p < 0.05). The amounts of outer canal width in R group was larger than H group only at the 1 mm level (p < 0.05).

4. The direction of canal deviation in H, R group at the 1, 2, 3 mm levels was outward and that in M group at the 1, 2 mm levels was inward. The amounts of canal deviation in H group was larger than R group at the 6 mm level (p < 0.05).

5. The amounts of centering ratio in H group was larger than R group at the 6 mm level (p < 0.05).

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of multiple application of all-in-one dentin adhesive system on microtensile bond strength using confocal laser scanning microscope and microtensile bond strength test. Flat occlusal dentin surfaces were prepared using low-speed diamond saw. In group I, Scotchbond Multipurpose (SM) was applied by manufacturer’s recommendation. In group II, after Adper Prompt L-Pop was applied for 15s and light cured for 10s, the second coat was re-applied and light-cured. In group III, after light-curing the second layer, the third coat was re-applied and light-cured. Specimens bonded with a resin-composite were sectioned into resin-dentin stick for measuring the adhesive layer thickness by confocal laser scanning microscope and evaluating micro-tensile bond strength. The adhesive layers of three-step dentin adhesive system, 3 coats of Adper Prompt L-Pop had significantly thicker than SM, 2 coats of Adper Prompt L-Pop (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant differences in bond strengths between SM and 3 coats of Adper Prompt L-Pop (p > 0.05). And SM, 3 coats of Adper Prompt L-Pop had significantly higher than 2 coats of Adper Prompt L-Pop in bond strengths (p < 0.05).

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the etching effects and bond strength of total etching and self-etching adhesive system on unground enamel using scanning electron microscopy and microtensile bond strength test.

The buccal coronal unground enamel from human extracted molars were prepared using low-speed diamond saw. Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (group SM), Clearfil SE Bond (group SE), or Adper Prompt L-Pop (group LP) were applied to the prepared teeth, and the blocks of resin composite (Filtek Z250) were built up incrementally. Resin tag formation was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, after removal of enamel surface by acid dissolution and dehydration. For microtensile bond strength test, resin-bonded teeth were sectioned to give a bonded surface area of 1mm². Microtensile bond strength test was perfomed.

The results of this study were as follows.

1. A definite etching pattern was observed in Scotchbond Multi-Purpose group.

2. Self-etching groups were characterized as shallow and irregular etching patterns.

3. The results (mean) of microtensile bond strength were SM; 26.55 MPa, SE; 18.15 MPa, LP; 15.57 MPa. SM had significantly higher microtensile bond strength than SE and PL (p < 0.05), but there was no significant differance between SE and PL.

The purposes of this study were to evaluate the effect of adhesive property on microtensile bond strength and to determine the failure mode.

Flat occlusal dentin surfaces were prepared using low-speed diamond saw. The dentin was etched with 37% phosphoric acid. The following adhesives were applied to the etched dentin to manufacturer's directions; Scotchbond Multi-Purpose in group SM, Prime&Bond NT in group NT, Scotchbond Multi-Purpose followed by Tetric-flow in group TR. After adhesive application, a cylinder of resin-based composite was built up on the occlusal surface. Each tooth was sectioned vertically to obtain the 1 × 1mm² "sticks". Microtensile bond strength were determined. Each specimen was observed under stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM) to examine the failure mode. Data were analyzed using one way ANOVA.

The results of this study were as follows;

1. The microtensile bond strength value were; group SM (18.98 ± 3.01MPa), group NT (16.01 ± 4.82MPa) and group TR (17.56 ± 3.22MPa). No significant statistical differences were observed among the groups (P>0.05).

2. Most of specimens showed mixed failure. In group TR, there was a higher number of specimens showing areas of cohesive failure in resin.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of the preparation of oval canals using hand and engine-driven instruments with SEM observation. Thirty single-rooted teeth with oval canal were used in this study. The teeth were divided into 3 groups. In group A, the teeth were instrumented up to a size 35 K-file using RC-prep and irrigated with 5% NaOCl between each file size. In group B, the teeth were instrumented with Profile according to the manufacture's instructions using RC-Prep and irrigated with 5% NaOCl between each file size. In group C, the teeth were instrumented with GT file according to the manufacture's instructions using RC-prep and irrigated with 5% NaOCl between each file size. Then, in all teeth, a final flush of 5ml of distilled water delivered for 30s. Canals were dried with sterile standardized paper points. After preparing the canals, the teeth were sectioned along their mesial and diatal surfaces by using low-speed diamond disc, chisel and mallet. Each root section was then dehydrated in graded concentration of alcohol (70, 80, 90, 100%), mounted on an aluminum stub, sputter-coated with gold-palladium and observed with scanning electron microscope (HITACHI S-4200) in middle and apical area.

The results of this study were as follows:

In the middle area, group B and group C showed less smear layer than group A, and it was statistically significant (p < 0.05).

This study compared the shaping ability of nickel-titanium rotary files with different rake angle and radial land.

The nickel-titanium files used in this study were Profile(Dentsply, Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland), Hero 642(Micromega, Besancon, France), and K3(SybronEndo, Glendora, Ca, USA) file. Resin blocks substituted for root canals. 36 resin blocks were divided into 3 groups with 12 canals each. The time for canal preparation was recorded. The images of pre- and postoperative resin canal were scanned and those were superimposed. Amounts of canal deviation, total canal widths, inner canal widths, and outer canal widths were measured at apical 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7mm levels.

The amount of canal deviation was the smallest in Profile group, and the time for canal preparation was the shortest in Hero 642 group. K3 group resulted in competent characteristics in both measurements. Positive rake angle seemed to result in fast shaping of root canal and radial land guide the instrument in center of the canals and around curvatures. Radial land also tended to reduce the sense of screwing into the root canal.

The proper selection of the nickel-titanium file based on the knowledge about file design is needed for the safer, simpler and faster root canal therapy.

The objectives of this study was to evaluate current visible light curing units regarding microhardness and microleakage. Fourty samples of composite resin(Z-250, 3M) were cured by different light curing units(Flipo, LOKKI; Credi II, 3M; XL 3000, 3M; Optilux 500,Demetron) in acrylic blocks. Microhardness was measured using a calibrated Vickers indenter on both top and bottom surfaces after 24 hours of storage in air at room temperature. Class V cavities were prepared on buccal and lingual surfaces of fourty extracted human molars. Each margin was on enamel and dentin/cementum. Composite resin(Z-250, 3M) was filled in cavities and cured by four different light curing units(Flipo, LOKKI; Credi II, 3M; XL 3000, 3M; Optilux 500, Demetron).

The results of this syudy were as follows:

Microhardness

1. Flipo showed low microhardness compared to Optilux 500, Credi II significantly in upper surface. Flipo didn't show a significant difference compared to XL 3000.

2. The microhardness resulting from curing with Flipo was lower than that of others on lower surfaces.

Microleakage

1. Dentin margin showed significantly high dye penetration rate than enamel margin in all groups(p<0.05).

2. No significant differences were found on both enamel and dentin margin regarding curing units.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the correlation between hybrid layer thickness and bond strength using confocal laser scanning microscope and microtensile bond strength test of two adhesive systems.

The dentin surface of human molars, sectioned to remove the enamel from the occlusal surface. Either Scotchbond Multi-Purpose(3M Dental Product, St. Paul, MN, U.S.A) or Clearfil SE Bond(Kuraray, Osaka, Japan) was bonded to the surface, and covered with resin-composite. The resin-bonded teeth were serially sliced perpendicular to the adhesive interface to measure the hybrid layer thickness by confocal laser scanning microscope. The specimen were trimmed to give a bonded cross-sectional surface area of 1mm², then the micro-tensile bone test was performed at a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/min. All fractured surfaces were also observed by stereomicroscope.

There was no significant differences in bond strengths the materials(p>0.05). However, the hybrid layers of three-step dentin adhesive system, SM, had significantly thicker than self-etching adhesive system, CS(p<0.05). Pearson's correlation coefficient showed no correlation between hybrid layer thickness and bond strengths(p>0.05). Bond strengths of dentin adhesive systems were not dependent on the thickness of hybrid layer.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the rewetting effect of water-based primer on the air-dried dentin. In this in vitro study, freshly extracted non-caries human molars and three-step adhesive system(SBMP) were used.

Freshly extracted non-caries human molars and three-step adhesive system(SBMP) were used. Flat occlusal dentin surface were prepared using low-speed diamond saw. Prepared teeth were randomly divided into three groups. Group 1.(W); etched(35% phosphoric acid for 15s) and blot-dried, Group 2.(5D); 5s air-dried, Group 3.(30D); 30s air-dried. To obtain color contrast in CLSM observation, primer was mixed with rhodamine B and bonding resin was mixed with fluorescein. Microscopic sample of each group were obtained after longitudinal section. Morphological investigation of resin-dentin interface and thickness of hybrid layer measurement using CLSM were done. Microtensile bond strength for each specimen was measured. Specimen were observed under microscope to examine the failure patterns of interface between resin and dentin.

The results of this study were as follows:

The results(mean) of Thickness of hybrid layer were W;19.67, 5D;20.9, 30D;10µm. Only 30D had statistically significant differences to W and 5D(P<0.05).

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of EDTA and pulsed Nd:YAG laser on apical leakage of canal obturation. Forty-eight single-rooted teeth were used in this study. The teeth were instrumented up to a size 40 K-file and irrigated with 2.5% NaOCl between each file size. And the teeth were divided into 4 groups. In group A, the root canals were irrigated with a final flush of 5ml 2.5% NaOCl as a control group. The teeth in group B were irrigated with a final flush of 5ml 17% EDTA. The teeth in group C and D were irradiated by pulsed Nd:YAG laser(laser parameters were set at 1W, 100mJ, 10Hz, and 2W, 100mJ, 20Hz respectively).

The results were as follows:

1. Apical leakage was observed in 50% of samples in group A, 30% of samples in group B, 20% of samples in group C, and 10% of samples in group D.

2. The teeth in group B had less leakage than group A, but there was no statistically significant differences(p>0.05).

3. The teeth in group C, D had less leakage than group A, and there was statistically significant differences(p<0.05).

4. The teeth in group C, D had less leakage than group B, but there was no statistically significant differences(p>0.05).

5. There was no significant differences in apical leakage between group C and group D(p>0.05).

The purpose of the present study were to evaluate microleakage of a fourth generation dentin-bonding agent following a walking bleaching treatment, to determine the effect of temporary postbleaching dressing with calcium hydroxide on microleakage and to investigate the effect of delayed intracoronal restoration on microleakage.

The results of this study were as follows:

1. Bleached groups showed more microleakage than unbleached group.

2. Immediately restored group following bleaching procedure showed the highest microleakage score.

3. One-week delayed restorations showed less microleakage but there were no statistically significant difference between group II and III.

4. Provisional dressing with calcium hydroxide had no influence on microleakage.

It is necessary to know the time that has elapsed from the bleaching treatment to the restoration procedure to achieve optimal seal, as well as to reduce the risk of microleakage in adhesive restoration.