Root surfaces after ultrasonic instrumentation with a polishing fluid

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Periodontology
• Biomaterials

Background:

• The Vector system is a new ultrasonic device.
• A polishing fluid with hydroxylapatite granules is recommended for use with the Vector system.
• Root surface morphology after treatment needs evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess root surface morphologic alterations after ultrasonic treatment with a specific polishing fluid.
• To investigate the effect of hydroxylapatite granules on dentinal tubules.

Main Methods:

• 30 human teeth had cementum removed and surfaces planed and acid-conditioned.
• Teeth were divided into 5 groups: control, ultrasonic system only, ultrasonic system with polishing fluid, toothbrush with polishing fluid, and toothbrush only.
• Specimens were examined using light and scanning electron microscopy.

Main Results:

• The control group lacked a smear layer.
• Ultrasonic treatment alone showed some smear layer formation.
• Treatment with the ultrasonic system and polishing fluid resulted in a granular layer (approx. 2 µm) covering dentinal tubules.
• Toothbrush and polishing fluid created a thicker granular layer (approx. 5 µm).
• Toothbrush alone produced a thin smear layer.

Conclusions:

• Using a polishing fluid with hydroxylapatite granules during root surface treatment forms a granular layer.
• This granular layer covers dentinal tubules.
• The granular layer has the potential to reduce hypersensitivity following ultrasonic subgingival scaling.