Bacteria in cavities beneath intermediary base materials

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Cariology
• Pediatric Dentistry

Background:

• Bacterial microleakage beneath dental restorations is a significant factor in secondary caries and pulpitis.
• Selection of appropriate intermediary base materials is crucial for preventing bacterial ingress in primary molars.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of six intermediary base materials in preventing bacterial entrance beneath silicate cement fillings in vivo.
• To compare the sealing ability of various base materials against common dental cements.

Main Methods:

• An in vivo study was conducted on primary molars with cavities prepared for silicate cement fillings.
• Six different intermediary base materials (Fluoritec, Durelon solid mixed, De Trey phosphate cement solid/creamy mixed, Dycal, zinc oxide-eugenol cement, Dropsin, Durelon creamy mixed) were placed.
• Bacterial presence on the pulpal wall was assessed after a 1-month observation period.

Main Results:

• No bacteria were detected beneath Dycal, zinc oxide-eugenol cement, Dropsin, and Durelon (creamy mixed).
• Bacteria were found in 20% of cavities under Fluoritec and 40% under Durelon (solid mixed) or De Trey phosphate cement (solid/creamy mixed).
• High bacterial presence was observed beneath silicate cement (90%) and silver amalgam (50%) fillings without intermediary bases.

Conclusions:

• Dycal, zinc oxide-eugenol cement, Dropsin, and Durelon (creamy mixed) demonstrate excellent sealing properties against bacterial microleakage in primary molars.
• These materials provide a superior barrier compared to Fluoritec, Durelon (solid mixed), De Trey phosphate cement, silicate cement, and silver amalgam alone.
• The choice of intermediary base material significantly impacts the prevention of bacterial contamination beneath restorations in pediatric dentistry.