In vitro evaluation of the cariostatic action of esthetic restorative materials in bovine teeth under severe cariogenic challenge.

Considering that caries around restorations is a serious problem in dentistry, and some restorative materials with fluoride may be important in inhibiting these lesions, this research is aimed at performing an in vitro evaluation of the cariostatic action of some esthetic restorative materials. Standardized cavities were prepared in the center of either intact blocks of bovine enamel or with bovine teeth containing early artificial carious lesions. The specimens were restored with a high viscosity glass ionomer cement (Molar Ketac), a resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Vitremer), a polyacid-modified resin composite (Dyract AP) and a conventional resin composite (Z-250). In addition to the restored specimens, four corresponding control groups were evaluated. All groups, except for two control groups, were subjected to a demineralization/remineralization cycling model for 14 days, simulating a situation of severe cariogenic challenge. The blocks were then longitudinally sectioned through the restorations. Mineral loss was evaluated in these specimens using the Knoop microhardness profiles in longitudinal sections at three different distances of the cavities and at eight distinct depths in relation to the external enamel surface. Statistical analysis of the results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) among the groups, although none of the study materials completely inhibited creation of the lesions. Vitremer demonstrated the best cariostatic action in intact bovine enamel. Ketac Molar, in intact or demineralized enamel, and Vitremer, in demineralized enamel, presented intermediate cariostatic potential. Z-250 and Dyract AP did not demonstrate any cariostatic effect. The data suggests that glass ionomer cements demonstrated better cariostatic action compared to the other restorative materials.