Ionic Fluoropolyphosphazenes as Potential Adhesive Agents for Dental Restoration Applications

Clinically, the use of photo-activated polymer-based dental composites is the preferred method to restore carious teeth due to their esthetics and ease of application. However, the longevity of these resin-based composite tooth restorations can be compromised by the sensitivity of the bonded interface between the composite and the tooth surface. The objective of the current study was to modify the tooth surface with novel fluorinated polyphosphazenes (PPZs), thereby improving the stability of the interface. Binding isotherms of PPZs with collagen (CLG) and hydroxyapatite (HA), two of the primary components of teeth, were established and indicate significant and stable adsorption to the surfaces of these materials. PPZs were also shown to protect CLG against acidic dissolution in a model system. A composite material consisting of the fluorinated polymer and CLG demonstrated three-dimensional stability and significant hydrophobicity. Additionally, no hemolytic activity was observed when evaluated using a porcine red blood cells (RBC) assay. Bovine dentin treated with PPZs demonstrated increased contact angle (hydrophobicity) compared with control samples and resisted fluid penetration when assessed using a dye penetration study. Finally, microhardness evaluation of bovine dentin treated with PPZs and exposed to an acidic challenge showed that treated dentin resisted demineralization. The hardness of the untreated control was significantly reduced after exposure when compared with the PPZ-treated samples. This study represents a novel approach to overcoming the current limitations of composite restorations. These results are promising to improve the longevity of composite dental restorations and may have wider use in sealants, varnishes, and other dental applications. Tooth decay remains a prevalent problem worldwide. Polymer-based composites are the most frequently used tooth restorative used in the clinic. The longevity of these fillings is limited due to conditions in the mouth that can weaken the adhesive used to bond the composite to the natural tooth. The current study uses novel polyphosphazenes (PPZs), hybrid organic-inorganic macromolecules with tunable hydrophilic-hydrophobic properties to coat the tooth surface to achieve better compatibility with the adhesive, thereby improving the longevity of the restoration. Results indicate that PPZs have significant and stable adsorption onto teeth, which may lead to a more stable bonded interface.