Enhancing dental sealant performance: Effects of mesoporous bioactive glass and 10-MDP on adhesion and remineralization

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the effect of incorporating mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) and 10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate (10-MDP) into dental sealants on enamel remineralization and adhesion.

Methods

Five sealant groups were established: Control (Any-Seal™; MEDICLUS, Cheongju, Korea); experimental sealants containing 0.5 wt % MBG; 1 wt % MBG; 0.5 wt % MBG + 5 wt % 10-MDP; 1 wt % MBG + 5 wt % 10-MDP, respectively. Two weeks later, enamel remineralization was assessed using microhardness, field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) analysis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Mechanical properties were determined by measuring flexural strength and shear bond strength (SBS).

Results

MBG-containing sealants significantly increased enamel micro-hardness, with FE-SEM and XRD confirming enhanced remineralization. Although 10-MDP-containing sealants significantly enhanced SBS (p ≤ 0.0157), they reduced flexural strength (p ≤ 0.0461).

Conclusions

Collectively, our findings suggest that MBG can enhance enamel remineralization in dental sealants. Although 10-MDP improves SBS, it may compromise flexural strength. An optimal balance of MBG and 10-MDP is crucial for achieving enhanced remineralization and adhesion.

Clinical significance

Incorporating MBG and 10-MDP into dental sealants could enhance clinical performance by improving adhesion and promoting enamel remineralization, which may reduce secondary caries and delay the need for more extensive restorative treatments in the future.