The Effect of Various Mixing Techniques on the Push-Out Bond Strength of Calcium Enriched Mixture

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM: Correct proportioning and mixing are essential to ensure cements attain their optimum physical properties. PURPOSE: The aim of this experimental study was to evaluate the influence of various mixing techniques including manual, mechanical mixing, and ultrasonic vibration on push-out bond strength of calcium enriched mixture (CEM). MATERIALS AND METHOD: Ninety 2-mm-thick dentin disks were prepared from single-rooted human teeth and filled with CEM mixed with manual, trituration, or ultrasonic methods. Push-out bond strength values of the specimens were measured by a universal testing machine after 3 and 21 days. The samples were then examined under a stereomicroscope at 40× magnification to determine the nature of bond failure. Data were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney test. (p< 0.05) RESULTS: The highest (7.59 MPa) and lowest (4.01 MPa) bond strength values were recorded in conventional method (after 21 days) and trituration method (after 3 days), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the three techniques in 3 and 21 days. CONCLUSION: According to the results, various mixing techniques had no effect on the push-out bond strength of CEM cement.