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Bioengineering perspectives on adhesive delivery: performance analysis of dental microapplicators
Rim Bourgi1,2,3, Celso Afonso Klein Junior4, Laura Rebelo Allram5
1Department of Restorative and Esthetic Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Saint-Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
Frontiers in Dental Medicine
|November 24, 2025
Summary
This study found that SDI and Angelus microapplicators offer superior bristle quality and structural stability for dental adhesive delivery. While all brands efficiently released adhesive, variations in microapplicator tip integrity may impact clinical handling and precision.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Restorative Dentistry
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Reliable bonding in restorative dentistry depends on precise adhesive system application.
- Microapplicators are standard tools for dental adhesive delivery, but their quality can vary.
- Variations in microapplicator structure and performance may impact clinical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate four dental microapplicator brands: Angelus, FGM, KG Sorensen, and SDI.
- To compare the structural quality of their active tips (bristle configuration).
- To assess their adhesive delivery capacity.
Main Methods:
- 160 microapplicators (40 per brand) were analyzed using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- Bristle integrity and surface morphology were assessed before and after use.
- Adhesive release capacity was measured by weight before and after application.
Main Results:
- Angelus, KG Sorensen, and SDI showed uniform bristle arrangements initially.
- SDI and Angelus maintained bristle cohesion post-use; FGM showed the most deformation.
- All brands achieved over 96% adhesive release, indicating comparable efficiency.
Conclusions:
- SDI microapplicators exhibited the highest structural stability and resistance to deformation.
- Angelus and KG Sorensen also showed good structural integrity.
- While adhesive release was consistent, bristle quality differences may affect clinical handling and precision.

