Effects of cyclic loading and toothbrush abrasion on cervical lesion formation.

This study sought to determine the effect of cyclic loading and toothbrush abrasion (with and without abrasive slurries) on cervical lesion formation. The roots of extracted human third molars were embedded in acrylic resin, leaving 2 mm of root structure and crowns exposed. Teeth were divided into 6 groups (n = 10) with the following treatments: no treatment (control), cyclic load in distilled water, brushing with distilled water, cyclic load followed by brushing with distilled water, brushing with toothpaste slurry, and cyclic load followed by brushing with toothpaste slurry.

Microleakage and sealant penetration using a vibrating probe.

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of a vibrating probe on sealant penetration into pits and fissures.

Methods: Thirty-six extracted human third molars were used. The occlusal surface of each molar was cleaned with a rubber cup and pumice slurry.

Six-year clinical evaluation of bonded and pin-retained complex amalgam restorations.

This clinical study compared the performance of complex amalgam restorations retained with self-threading pins or bonded with a filled, 4-META-based resin. Sixty amalgam restorations (28 pin-retained and 32 bonded), each replacing at least one cusp, were placed. Self-threading stainless steel pins (Coltene-Whaledent) were used in the pin-retained group.

Three restorative materials and topical fluoride gel used in xerostomic patients: a clinical comparison.

Background: The authors compare the incidence of recurrent caries around two glass ionomer restorative materials and one amalgam material.

Methods: The authors placed 111 restorations in nine xerostomic patients. Patients were given oral hygiene instructions and fluoride gel to use daily.

Conservative cavity preparations.

When a caries lesion is detected, non-surgical means of treatment (fluorides, antimicrobials, and patient education) should be used unless it is a frank caries lesion. In that case, the lesion should be treated restoratively, but the patient should also be educated and treated to reduce caries risk. When the frank caries lesion is relatively small, the restorative treatment should simply involve removal of carious dentin and overlying unsupported enamel and placement of the restorative material.