Biomechanical degradation of the nano-filled resin-modified glass-ionomer surface

To evaluate in the laboratory the roughness (Ra) and micromorphology surface of the nanofilled resin-modified glass-ionomer (Ketac N100) subjected to biomechanical degradation, compared to Vitremer, Ketac Molar Easymix and Fuji IX.

Specimens obtained from the ionomers were divided into two storage groups (n = 10): relative humidity and S. mutans biofilm (biodegradation). After 7 days, Ra values and micrographs were obtained. Then, the brushing abrasion test (mechanical degradation) was conducted with dentifrice slurry (three-body) and the specimens were reassessed. Data were submitted to repeated measures three-way ANOVA and Tukey tests (P < 0.05).

There was significant interaction among the factors: material, storage and abrasion (before/after). Vitremer showed similar Ra values between storage groups, while the other materials presented higher Ra values after biodegradation test. Concerning biomechanical challenge, Ketac N100 presented the lowest Ra values. Ketac Molar Easymix and Fuji IX presented undesirable roughening of their surfaces under the detrimental conditions tested. The eroded aspect after biodegradation with filler exposure after mechanical degradation was evident.