Multifunctional poly(alkyl methacrylate) films for dental care

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomaterials
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Dental coatings aim to provide therapeutic benefits and protection to tooth structures.
• Poly(alkyl methacrylate)s offer tunable properties for potential dental applications.
• Evaluating non-permanent coatings is crucial for developing effective dental care solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the dental-care benefits of poly(alkyl methacrylate) coatings.
• To assess the capacity of these coatings to inhibit acid-mediated erosion.
• To determine their potential as anti-sensitivity barriers and resistance to staining.

Main Methods:

• Thin films of poly(alkyl methacrylate)s (ethyl to octadecyl) were deposited onto dental substrates from aqueous latex formulations.
• Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) was used to characterize film thickness and surface roughness.
• Acid-mediated erosion was evaluated by released-phosphate determinations; anti-sensitivity was assessed by hydraulic conductance measurements; and stain resistance was determined by chromometric measurements.

Main Results:

• Poly(butyl methacrylate) formed a close-packed film, inhibiting acid-mediated erosion by approximately 27%.
• Single treatments with poly(butyl methacrylate) or poly(ethyl methacrylate) reduced dentine fluid flow by about 23%; repeated poly(butyl methacrylate) treatments reduced fluid flow by about 80%.
• Treated hydroxyapatite discs showed significant resistance to staining by food chromogens.

Conclusions:

• Poly(alkyl methacrylate) coatings demonstrate significant potential for dental applications, including acid erosion inhibition and anti-sensitivity effects.
• The properties of the coatings, such as thickness and roughness, are influenced by polymer characteristics.
• These findings support the development of poly(alkyl methacrylate)s as effective, non-permanent dental protective and therapeutic agents.