Open AccessStrong Nanocomposites with Ca, PO4, and F Release for Caries Inhibition
Author(s) -
Haiping Xu,
Michael D. Weir,
Limin Sun,
Jennifer L. Moreau,
Shōzō Takagi,
Laurence C. Chow,
Joseph M. Antonucci
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
journal of dental research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1544-0591
pISSN - 0022-0345
DOI - 10.1177/0022034509351969
Subject(s) - nanocomposite , silanization , materials science , filler (materials) , composite material , nanoparticle , flexural strength , fluoride , particle size , calcium , toughness , fracture toughness , chemical engineering , nanotechnology , chemistry , metallurgy , inorganic chemistry , engineering
This article reviews recent studies on: (1) the synthesis of novel calcium phosphate and calcium fluoride nanoparticles and their incorporation into dental resins to develop nanocomposites; (2) the effects of key microstructural parameters on Ca, PO(4), and F ion release from nanocomposites, including the effects of nanofiller volume fraction, particle size, and silanization; and (3) mechanical properties of nanocomposites, including water-aging effects, flexural strength, fracture toughness, and three-body wear. This article demonstrates that a major advantage of using the new nanoparticles is that high levels of Ca, PO(4), and F release can be achieved at low filler levels in the resin, because of the high surface areas of the nanoparticles. This leaves room in the resin for substantial reinforcement fillers. The combination of releasing nanofillers with stable and strong reinforcing fillers is promising to yield a nanocomposite with both stress-bearing and caries-inhibiting capabilities, a combination not yet available in current materials.