Remineralization potential and mechanical evaluation of a bioactive glass containing composite (An ex vivo study)

Abstract

AIM: The aim of the study was to compare the remineralization ability, ion release, micro-shear bond strength, and wear resistance of a claimed bioactive restorative material (ACTIVA BioACTIVE Restorative) with the conventional resin composite (Filtek Z350 XT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The remineralization ability was evaluated after 28 days using energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. Ion release was investigated at 3 time intervals: 1, 14, and 28 days. Calcium and phosphate ion releases were determined by using ion chromatography system. Micro-shear bond strength was assessed using a universal testing machine. A dual-axis chewing simulator was used to assess the wear resistance of the study materials. RESULTS: ACTIVA™ was found to induce the remineralization of demineralized dentin. The obtained data revealed that ACTIVA™ released Ca²⁺ and PO<inf>4</inf>⁻³ ions, while Filtek Z350 XT did not. Concerning micro-shear bond strength ACTIVA™ without adhesive application showed unacceptable failure. Regarding wear resistance, there was no statistically significant difference between them. CONCLUSION: ACTIVA™ BioACTIVE Restorative material seems a promising bioactive restorative material. Clinical studies are recommended to compare the clinical performance of ACTIVA™ to other restorative materials.