Odontoblast apoptosis and intratubular mineralization of sclerotic dentin with aging.

Objectives: The aims of the study were to evaluate the roles of odontoblast apoptosis in the progression of tubular sclerosis of teeth from donors at different ages and assess its correlation to chemical composition and mechanical properties.

Design: Healthy human teeth were obtained and divided into young (age ≤ 25, n = 12) and old (age ≥ 60, n = 12) groups. Odontoblasts were counted with standard hematoxylin and eosin staining.

Shrinkage Strains in the Dentin of Endodontically Treated Teeth with Water Loss.

Introduction: Dehydration has been considered as a potential contributor to vertical root fractures (VRFs) after root canal treatment (RCT). A loss of water could cause embrittlement of dentin and detrimental shrinkage strains. Senior patients have the highest risk of VRF.

Inhibition of oral biofilm formation by zwitterionic nonfouling coating.

Inhibition of oral biofilm formation is critical to prevent and treat dental caries and periodontal diseases. In this study, we synthesized zwitterionic poly(carboxybetaine) (pCB) based polymer as a nonfouling coating to provide anti-bacterial properties to tooth surfaces. Four catechol derived l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) groups were conjugated to pCB to serve as a surface anchoring group.

Ceramic implant fracture: A clinical report.

This clinical report describes the presentation of a fractured ceramic dental implant. The fractured implant segment was examined by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Energy dispersive spectroscopy confirmed that the fractured implant was made of alumina.

Contribution of Root Canal Treatment to the Fracture Resistance of Dentin.

Introduction: Although the strength and toughness of dentin decrease with age, no study has explored if restorative treatments are a contributing factor.

Methods: Multiple extracted teeth were obtained from randomly selected donors and categorized according to donor age and prior root canal treatment. The microstructure and chemical composition of radicular dentin were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, respectively, and the strength was evaluated in 4-point flexure to failure.

Reduction in Fracture Resistance of the Root with Aging.

Introduction: The incidence of vertical root fracture in endodontically treated teeth increases with patient age. This study evaluated the microstructure, chemical composition, and mechanical properties of radicular dentin as a function of aging.

Methods: Single-rooted teeth were obtained from adult donors ranging from age 15 to older than 80 years.