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Published on: July 21, 2014
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Radiopacity of Composite Luting Cements Using a Digital Technique
1School of Dental Medicine University of Zagreb, Croatia.
Summary
Most dental composite luting materials exhibit radiopacity exceeding dentin and enamel. High radiopacity is crucial for material selection, with Solocem and Multilink showing superior performance.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Radiology
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Radiopacity is a critical property for dental materials, aiding in radiographic diagnosis.
- Composite luting materials are widely used in dental restorations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and compare the radiopacity of 20 common dental composite luting materials.
- To assess their performance against established standards and tooth structures.
Main Methods:
- In vitro digital radiography was employed to assess 1-mm thick specimens.
- Radiopacity was quantified using computer software and compared to aluminum step wedges.
- Equivalent aluminum thickness was calculated for each material.
Main Results:
- 80% of materials showed radiopacity above enamel, and all but one exceeded dentin radiopacity.
- 40% of materials met or exceeded three times the minimal International Organization for Standardization (ISO) radiopacity values.
- Solocem and Multilink demonstrated the highest radiopacity, significantly exceeding dentin values.
Conclusions:
- Dental composite luting materials should possess radiopacity greater than ISO standards, dentin, or enamel.
- Solocem and Multilink offer superior radiopacity, making them favorable choices.
- Clinicians and manufacturers should prioritize high radiopacity in material selection and development.

