Surface Microstructure of Two Bioceramics: Calcium-Enriched Mixture and Cold Ceramic in Setting Environments with...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• The setting environment's pH can influence bioceramic surface characteristics.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing bioceramic performance in dental applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the surface microstructure of calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement and cold ceramic (CC) when exposed to varying pH levels during setting.
• To investigate the impact of acidic, neutral (pH 7.4), and alkaline environments on bioceramic microstructural development.

Main Methods:

• Dentin blocks were prepared and filled with CEM cement or CC.
• Samples were exposed to acidic, neutral, and alkaline pH conditions for one week.
• Surface microstructure was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with backscattered electron (BSE) detectors; pH changes were monitored.

Main Results:

• Acidic environments revealed more amorphous microstructures in CC compared to CEM cement.
• Neutral and alkaline pH conditions showed more unhydrated structures in CEM cement than in CC.
• CEM cement exhibited more rapid pH changes during the initial 48 hours of setting compared to CC.

Conclusions:

• Setting pH significantly affects bioceramic surface microstructure and physical properties.
• CC crystallization is more disrupted by acidic environments than CEM cement.
• CEM cement demonstrates a more rapid pH alteration during setting.