Influence of the composition of an experimental adhesive on conversion kinetics, flexural strength and radiodensity

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of the addition of three radiopaque agents to an experimental adhesive on conversion kinetics, flexural strength and radiodensity. Methods: The model adhesive was formulated by mixing 50 wt% Bis-GMA, 25 wt% TEGDMA and 25 wt% HEMA. Barium sulfate, Titanium dioxide and Zirconium in 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8 and 1.6 wt% were added separately resulting in 15 experimental groups and 1 control group. The conversion kinetics of the model adhesive was evaluated using real time Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The flexural tests were performed on 5 specimens (12 × 2 × 2 mm) for each group (total n = 80) in a universal testing machine. The radiodensity was evaluated by using an aluminum step-wedge and VistaScan phosphorous plates radiographs digital system with 0.6 s exposure and focal distance of 40 cm. Results: No statistical difference (P > 0.05) was found in flexural strength among all groups. The values of degree of conversion ranged from 45.51% e 62.46%. All groups showed higher values than 0.54 mm of aluminum for the evaluation of radiopacity. Conclusion: The addition of radiopaquing agents increased the adhesive radiodensity and did not affect its degree of conversion and flexural strength.