The integration of nanostructured materials into dental adhesives has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance both functional and aesthetic properties in restorative dentistry. This study focuses on the development and evaluation of a novel nanocomposite coating based on a PENTA/UDMA adhesive system enriched with hydroxyapatite (NHAp) and titanium dioxide (NTiO2) nanoparticles. The primary objective was to investigate how varying concentrations of these nanofillers affect the optical, mechanical, and structural characteristics of the adhesive, ultimately aiming to achieve an optimal aesthetic white appearance while maintaining strong adherence and durability on tooth enamel.
Hydroxyapatite nanorods were synthesized via a wet chemical method combining hydrothermal and ultrasound-assisted precipitation techniques. The resulting NHAp exhibited a uniform rod-like morphology with an average length of 55 nm and diameter of 13.5 nm, confirmed through high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM).OTUD4 Antibody Purity & Documentation Similarly, TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized in the anatase phase with an average size of 20 nm.APOL1 Antibody supplier These powders were mixed at a ratio of 75% NHAp and 25% NTiO2 by weight and subsequently incorporated into the PENTA/UDMA adhesive matrix at three different loading levels: 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight. The mixture underwent ultrasonic dispersion for 15 minutes to ensure homogeneous distribution of the nanoparticles within the liquid adhesive.
Optical characterization revealed that the composite containing 10 wt% of the NHAp/NTiO2 mixture produced the most desirable aesthetic outcome—optimal white appearance—due to its enhanced light scattering and reflectance properties. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy demonstrated that this formulation achieved a peak reflectance of 46.83% at a wavelength of 423 nm, significantly higher than the pure adhesive (15%) or lower concentration mixtures (33.5% at 5 wt%). This improvement is attributed to the synergistic interaction between the two nanomaterials, where NHAp contributes to opacity and brightness, while NTiO2 enhances surface roughness and light reflection without compromising translucency.PMID:35069554
Mechanical performance was assessed using nanoindentation, which provided precise measurements of hardness (H), elastic modulus (E), and resistance to plastic deformation. The optimal coating (10 wt%) exhibited a hardness of 3.2 ± 0.3 GPa and an elastic modulus of 78 ± 3 GPa—substantially higher than the unmodified PENTA/UDMA adhesive (H = 1.05 GPa, E = 2.1 GPa). Moreover, the yield point reached 107 MPa ± 2, indicating improved load-bearing capacity. Nanoscratching tests showed minimal wear track deformation (3.7 ± 0.12 μm²), confirming excellent scratch resistance and coating stability under mechanical stress.
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis further validated the homogeneity and surface quality of the coatings. At 10 wt%, the surface roughness was measured at 33.4 ± 0.3 nm, significantly lower than at 15 wt% (198.7 ± 1.0 nm), suggesting better dispersion and reduced particle agglomeration. SEM imaging confirmed uniform distribution of fillers and absence of cracks or delamination after scratching, demonstrating strong interfacial adhesion to tooth enamel.
In conclusion, the incorporation of nanostructured NHAp and NTiO2 into a PENTA/UDMA adhesive creates a mechanically robust, aesthetically superior coating suitable for restoring stained or damaged enamel. The 10 wt% formulation offers the ideal balance between color enhancement, mechanical strength, and surface smoothness, making it a viable candidate for clinical application in cosmetic dentistry.MedChemExpress (MCE) offers a wide range of high-quality research chemicals and biochemicals (novel life-science reagents, reference compounds and natural compounds) for scientific use. We have professionally experienced and friendly staff to meet your needs. We are a competent and trustworthy partner for your research and scientific projects.Related websites: https://www.medchemexpress.com