Effect of Cumulative Ionizing Radiation on Flexural Strength, Flexural Modulus, and Elasticity Modulus of Dentin in Unerupted Human Third Molars

PURPOSE: This in vitro study aimed to investigate the changes in mechanical properties in dentin of third molars after radiation therapy using variable doses and frequencies. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Rectangular cross sectioned dentin hemisections (N = 60, n = 15 per group; >7 × 4 × 1.2 mm) were prepared using extracted third molars. After cleansing and storage in artificial saliva, random distribution was performed to 2 irradiation settings, namely AB or CD (A, 30 single doses of irradiation [2 Gy each] for 6 weeks; B, control group of A; C, 3 single doses of irradiation [9 Gy each]; and D, control group of C). Various parameters (fracture strength/maximal force, flexural strength, and elasticity modulus) were assessed using a universal Testing Machine (ZwickRoell). The effect of irradiation on dentin morphology was evaluated by histology, scanning electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry. Statistical analysis was performed using 2-way analysis of variance and paired and unpaired t tests at a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: Significance could be found considering the maximal force applied to failure when the irradiated groups were compared with their control groups (A/B, P < .0001; C/D, P = .008). Flexural strength was significantly higher in the irradiated group A compared with control group B (P < .001) and for the irradiated groups A and C (P = .022) compared with each other. Cumulative radiation with low irradiation doses (30 single doses; 2 Gy) and single irradiation with high doses (3 single doses; 9 Gy) make the tooth substance more prone to fracture, lowering the maximal force. The flexural strength decreases when cumulative irradiation is applied, but not after single irradiation. The elasticity modulus showed no alteration after irradiation treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Irradiation therapy affects the prospective adhesion of dentin and the bond strength of future restorations, potentially leading to an increased risk of tooth fracture and retention loss in dental reconstructions.