Influence of Bioactive, Inorganic, and Organic Fillers on Basic Properties of 4-META/MMA-TBB Resin as Restorative Materials for Root Caries.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of bioactive, inorganic, and organic fillers on the curing time, mechanical properties, mineralization ability, and shear bond strength to dentin of 4-methacryloxyethyl trimellitate anhydride/methyl methacrylate-tri-n-butylborane (4-META/MMA-TBB) resin-based restorative materials.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Experimental resins were prepared by incorporating 3 wt% organic composite filler, bioactive glass, or aluminosilicate glass into 4-META/MMA-TBB resin. A commercial organic-filler-containing 4-META/MMA-TBB resin (Bondfill SB Plus (BSP)) was also tested for comparison. The curing time, three-point flexural strength, and shear bond strength to root dentin were measured and statistically analyzed with a significance level of α = 0.05. The mineralization ability of groups containing bioactive glass was evaluated based on the formation of hydroxyapatite in simulated body fluid.

RESULTS

The bioactive glass group exhibited prolonged curing times and reduced flexural strengths compared to BSP. Bioactive glass induced slight mineralization. Organic composite filler reduced the curing time and significantly increased the shear bond strength to dentin. After thermal cycling, the organic composite filler groups retained higher bond strengths than the other groups.

CONCLUSION

Incorporating organic composite fillers into 4-META/MMA-TBB resin may improve clinical handling by reducing the curing time while maintaining or enhancing the bond strength to dentin, suggesting their suitability for restorative applications, particularly in moisture-compromised environments.