Purpose: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the color stability of restorative materials when exposed to a cola beverage.
Methods: Color changes in restorative materials caused by exposure to a cola beverage were studied using a split-plot experimental design. Three restorative materials (composite, resin-modified glass ionomer cement, and compomer) and 3 shades of each material under 2 surface conditions (polished and unpolished) were studied.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was conducted to determine if bristle wear impacts the adherence of Streptococcus mutans on toothbrushes and to evaluate whether it affects the extent of adherence at 0, 8, and 24 hours after air-drying.
Methods: Sixty toothbrushes--composed of 20 each from 3 different groups and defined by brand, brush trim, and head shape--were used in this study. Bristle wear on half of the toothbrushes was achieved using an orthodontic typodont with metal bonds and brackets and evaluated by 4 independent observers.
Purpose: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the: (1) shear bond strength (SBS) of acetone and ethanol-based bonding agents to composite resin 24 hours after being bleached with 35% hydrogen peroxide; and (2) interface morphology and mode of fracture (IMMF) between composite resin and enamel.
Methods: Forty extracted teeth were randomly assigned into 4 groups: (1) group 1: 35% H2O2 + acetone; (2) group 2: H2O2 + ethanol; (3) group 3: acetone; (4) group 4: ethanol. All teeth were acid etched, bonding agents were applied, and a composite resin stub was bonded and stored again in saline for 24 hours.
Purpose: The purposes of this study were to: (1) evaluate the ability of a laser fluorescence (LF) unit to detect simulated caries under pit and fissure sealants; (2) determine the effect of an opacifying agent in sealants on LF values; and (3) determine interexaminer reproducibility values of the unit in a highly controlled, laboratory setting. Sealant characteristics specifically considered were: (1) filler content; (2) opacity; and (3) intrinsic fluorescence.
Methods: Three sealants were used in this study: 2 unfilled and 1 filled.
Purpose: This study compared the effectiveness of 2 nasal hoods (Porter/Brown and Accutron) in reducing waste nitrous oxide gas during conscious sedation for routine pediatric dental treatment.
Methods: Thirty children, ages 3 to 8 years (mean=5.4 +/- 1.