Surface roughness average and scanning electron microscopic observations of resin luting agents

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate the surface roughness changes of three current resin cements after tooth brushing simulation, as well as discuss its relation with scanning electron microscopic observations. The materials employed were Enforce Sure Cure (Dentsply), Rely X (3M-ESPE) and Variolink II (Vivadent). They were subjected to brushing abrasion (100,000 strokes for each specimen) and the surface roughness alterations (before and after strokes) were detected. For each roughness test condition, specimens were coated with gold-palladium and observed on a DSM 900 Zeiss scanning electron microscope. Roughness changes values (Ra) were statistically increased after brushing strokes. Based on the microscopic observations and roughness changes analysis, all cements studied became rougher after brushing strokes.