Combining Bioactive Multifunctional Dental Composite with PAMAM for Root Dentin Remineralization

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Root dentin demineralization poses a significant challenge in restorative dentistry.
• Developing effective remineralization strategies is crucial for preserving tooth structure and function.
• Existing treatments often have limitations in addressing demineralized dentin effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a bioactive multifunctional composite (BMC) using nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate (NACP), 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC), dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM), and nanoparticles of silver (NAg).
• To investigate the combined effects of BMC and poly(amido amine) (PAMAM) on the remineralization of demineralized root dentin in a cyclic artificial saliva/lactic acid environment.
• To evaluate the potential of this novel combination for restorative dental applications.

Main Methods:

• Root dentin specimens were demineralized and then treated with control, BMC, PAMAM, or BMC + PAMAM.
• Specimens underwent a 21-day cyclic artificial saliva/lactic acid regimen.
• Remineralization was assessed by measuring calcium and phosphate ion release, acid neutralization, hardness testing, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Main Results:

• The developed BMC exhibited mechanical properties comparable to commercial composites and demonstrated excellent calcium and phosphate ion release and acid neutralization capabilities.
• BMC or PAMAM alone resulted in slight mineral regeneration of demineralized root dentin.
• The combination of BMC + PAMAM induced significant root dentin remineralization, restoring hardness to levels comparable to healthy root dentin.

Conclusions:

• The combined BMC + PAMAM treatment demonstrated unprecedented effectiveness in remineralizing demineralized root dentin.
• This novel approach provides complete remineralization and protection against acid challenges.
• The BMC + PAMAM method shows significant promise for use in Class V and other dental restorations to remineralize and protect tooth structures.