A Review of Dental Composites: Methods of Characterizations

Abstract

Dental composites are becoming increasingly popular in esthetic restorative dentistry and present a promising substitute for amalgam. However, the major hurdles that hinder their total adoption in restorative dentistry are limited longevity and possible health risks, leading to significant attempts for addressing these shortcomings. Besides the new materials, the evaluation methods play a critical role in the introduction and improvement of these types of materials. This review aims to cover the characterization methods in the evaluation of dental composites that are most employed nowadays. Therefore, the methods for evaluating the physical properties of the dental composites are first explained. Subsequently, the assessment methods of curing kinetics and the mechanical properties of the composites are classified and reviewed. Afterward, the article delves into the introduction and classification of the microscopic and antibacterial evaluation methods. Finally, the test methods for assessment of in vitro cytotoxicity and self-healing ability are described. It should be noted, for each test method, the most recent and interesting articles are cited. It is envisaged that this review will facilitate an understanding and provide knowledge for the section and utilizing the most effective and suitable characterization methods for future research on the development of dental composites.

Methacrylate peak determination and selection recommendations using ATR-FTIR to investigate polymerisation of dental methacrylate mixtures

“…This confirms that the ATR-FTIR technique is adequate and sensitive to study polymerisation kinetics of dental composites, and larger variations within the same subset are not expected. Methods of composite preparation should guarantee homogeneity for bulk preparation and packaging [ 53 ]. Although heterogeneity may occur in composites, and often results from different filler dispersion within the resin phase, which may lead to differences in light scattering [ 54 ].…”

Rheological and Mechanical Properties of Resin-Based Materials Applied in Dental Restorations

“…In clinics, dentist of-ten chooses different materials to fill the cavity caused by dental caries according to the location of the cavity, the size of the bite force and the patient’s health and aesthetic requirements [ 12 ]. Composite resins are preferred in recent years because of their greater tensile strength and less shrinkage and deformation during curing [ 13 , 14 ]. In the past, composite resins were softer than silver amalgam and were mainly used for filling cavities in anterior teeth.…”

“…Polymers 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 19 people have been working to optimize their performances, but they still have some defects that cannot be ignored such as polymerization shrinkage and defective physical and mechanical properties [8]. Resin-based composites have undergone many modifications as they evolved and represent the most relevant restorative materials in dental practice today [9].…”

Tailored Adhesion Properties of Acrylate Adhesives on Al Alloys by the Addition of Mn-Al–LDH

“…Their content can also modify the wear resistance of the composite surface; it can even alter the adhesion of the composite to any surface and the contact angle as well [ 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 ]. The filler phase is integrated into the organic matrix of dental composites to tailor various properties to better mimic the properties of the dental tissue that they substitute [ 16 , 17 ]. The stress transfer at the filler–matrix interface, which is influenced by the interfacial properties and surface area of the filler phase, determines the modulus of dental composites [ 18 ].…”