Application of nanobiomaterials in the prevention of dental erosion

Abstract

The aims of this project focus on the evaluation by micro energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (¼-EDXRF), FT-Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the applicability of Carbon Nanotubes/Graphene composites (CNTs/Graphene) and associations with nanohydroxyapatite (nHAp) and fluoride gel (FG) applied to root dentin as protection materials against acid erosion. The evaluation by non-destructive analytical tools for study the CNTs/Graphene composites application in dentistry is significant because the increasing development of new dental materials and biomaterials opens doors to research for developing nanobiomaterials with bioactive properties such as mineralization or protection of tooth structure in erosive processes. Thirty-five root bovine dentin specimens will be prepared and divided into seven experimental groups: G1 - artificial saliva (Control), G2 - acidulated phosphate fluoride gel (FG), G3 - nHAp, G4 - CNTs/Graphene composites, G5 - FG + nHAp, G6 - FG + CNTs/Graphene composites and G7 - FG + CNTs/Graphene/nHAp composite. Samples will be submitted to erosive cycling in orange juice in the protocol already established and to simulated brushing. Before and after the erosion/abrasion process samples will be evaluated by the three analytical tools. The ¼-EDXRF mappings will provide the quantification of calcium and phosphorus distribution across the surface of dentin. The technique will also indicate whether there was formation of a compound and if there is a homogeneous distribution or not. The inorganic and organic components of dentin and biomaterials will be assessed by FT-Raman spectroscopy. The morphology of the dentin will be evaluated by SEM. With data obtained will be possible to evaluate the influence of FG associated or not with CNTs/Grphene composites and nHAp in the process of erosion caused by acidic drink. It will also be possible to elucidate the possibility of the application of CNTs/Graphene composites and their associations with FG and nHAp as new biomaterials in dentistry. (AU)