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Evaluation of Fiber Contamination from Different Microapplicators in Universal Adhesive Systems: A Pilot In Vitro
Flavius-Alexandru Sinitean1,2,3, Luminița-Maria Nica1,2, Laura-Elena Cîrligeriu1,2
1Department of Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics, TADERP Research Center, Faculty of Dentistry, "Victor Babeș" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania.
Abstract:
Fiber contamination originating from disposable dental microapplicators has received limited attention despite its potential influence on adhesive procedures. The aim of this pilot in vitro study was to evaluate fiber-like structure release associated with different microapplicator types during the application of universal adhesive systems. Three universal adhesives (Clearfil Universal Bond Quick, Gluma Universal, and G-Premio BOND) and five microapplicator types (X-Slim, Clinique, Prima, Single TIM, and ZerofloX silicone-bristle microapplicators) were evaluated. A total of 75 adhesive applications were performed on standardized sandblasted glass substrates under controlled laboratory conditions. Adhesives were actively applied for 10 s, and fiber-like structures were quantified microscopically using ImageJ software. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, two-way ANOVA, and Tukey post hoc testing (α = 0.05). Significant differences were observed among microapplicator types. X-Slim applicators produced the highest fiber counts, whereas Single TIM applicators demonstrated substantially lower values. No detectable fiber-like structures were observed in specimens treated with the ZerofloX silicone-bristle microapplicator. Adhesive system type showed a comparatively smaller influence on fiber counts than microapplicator design. Within the limitations of this pilot in vitro study, microapplicator type appeared to be the primary factor influencing visible fiber contamination during adhesive application. Further studies are required to determine whether the contamination patterns observed influence adhesive performance under clinically relevant conditions.
Insights
Dental microapplicators can release fiber contamination during adhesive procedures. The ZerofloX silicone-bristle microapplicator showed no detectable fiber release, unlike other types tested.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Dental Materials
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Fiber contamination from dental microapplicators is an understudied issue.
- Potential impact on the success of adhesive dentistry procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate fiber-like structure release from different microapplicator types.
- Assess influence during universal adhesive system application.
Main Methods:
- In vitro pilot study using three universal adhesives and five microapplicator types.
- Quantified fiber structures microscopically after 10s application on glass substrates.
- Statistical analysis included two-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in fiber counts were observed among microapplicator types.
- X-Slim applicators yielded the highest fiber counts; Single TIM yielded lower counts.
- ZerofloX silicone-bristle microapplicators showed no detectable fiber contamination.
Conclusions:
- Microapplicator type is a primary factor influencing visible fiber contamination.
- Adhesive system type had a lesser influence on fiber counts.
- Further research needed to assess clinical relevance of observed contamination.
