The effects of resin infiltration on demineralized root surface: an experimental study

PURPOSE: The objective of this experimental invitro study was to investigate the effects of resin infiltration (RI) on surface roughness, microhardness, color and surface characteristics of artificially demineralized root surfaces. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-two root specimens prepared from freshly extracted intact human upper incisors were subjected to surface roughness, microhardness, and color tests. Profilometer was used to measure surface roughness and Vicker’s Hardness tester was used to measure the changes in microhardness. The color measurements were performed by a spectrophotometer using the CIELAB parameters. Following measurements, specimens were divided into 3 groups (n=14): G1: intact root surfaces, G2: demineralized root surfaces and G3: Resin infiltrated root surfaces (Icon, DMG) following demineralization. Surface roughness, microhardness and color measurements were repeated in G2 and G3 after demineralization and RI. One specimen from each group was examined by SEM. Data were analyzed statistically (p<0.05). RESULTS: Application of RI to artificially demineralized root surfaces significantly decreased the surface roughness (p<0.001) and increased the microhardness (p=0.023). RI also affected the color of demineralized root surfaces. SEM examinations revealed that the porosities on demineralized root surfaces seemed to be sealed after RI. CONCLUSION: RI affected the surface roughness, microhardness, color and surface appearance of artificially demineralized root surfaces.