Development of biomodification protocols for endodontically modified dentin and the impact on the adhesive interface with resin compounds

• Grant number: 25/09761-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry
• Principal Investigator: Milton Carlos Kuga
• Grantee: Julia de Assis Stenico
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia (FOAr). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Araraquara. Araraquara , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Recent advances in biotechnology have allowed the development of more efficient adhesivesystems, with simplified surgical protocols and less prone to technical failures. However,challenges still persist regarding the durability of adhesion to dentin, especially in cases ofdentin modified by endodontic procedures, often exposed to agents such as sodiumhypochlorite, which promote the degradation of the collagen matrix. In this sense, strategiesfor biomodification of the dentin substrate, such as the use of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO),quercetin and riboflavin, have been investigated due to their potential to inhibit degradativeenzymes, such as metalloproteinases, and favor the structural reinforcement of the organicmatrix. The present study aims to evaluate the effects of these biomodifiers on the bondstrength, the formation of the hybrid layer and the penetration of adhesives in dentinpreviously treated endodontically, both in the dental crown and in the root canal. For coronalanalysis, 40 bovine crowns will be standardized and subjected to experimental protocolsinvolving different biomodifiers and adhesive systems (Schotchbond Universal Plus orAmbar Universal Plus), following the condition-and-wash technique, and will besubsequently evaluated by means of microtensile tests, stereomicroscopy for analysis of thefailure pattern, laser confocal microscopy and electron microscopy. In the root canal stage, 80bovine roots, after preparation, will be treated with the same biomodifiers and analyzed bymeans of push-out tests, stereomicroscopy and laser confocal microscopy. Thus, it is expected that the results of this study will contribute to thedevelopment of more effective clinical protocols, with the potential to extend the longevity ofadhesive restorations in endodontically treated teeth, highlighting the role of biomodifyingagents in the preservation of dentin structure.