Boron Nitride Nanotubes as Filler for Resin-Based Dental Sealants

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of boron-nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) on the properties of resin-based light-curing dental sealants (RBSs) when incorporated at different concentration. RBSs were formulated using methacrylate monomers (90 wt.%TEGDMA, 10 wt.% BisGMA). BNNTs were added to the resin blend at 0.1 wt.% and 0.2 wt.%. A Control group without filler was also designed. Degree of conversion, ultimate tensile strength, contact angle, surface free energy, surface roughness and color of the RBSs were evaluated for the tested materials. Their cytotoxicity and mineral deposition ability (Bioactivity) were also assessed. A suitable degree of conversion, no effect in mechanical properties and no cytotoxic effect was observed for the experimental materials. Moreover, the surface free energy and the surface roughness decreased with the addition of BNNTs. While the color analysis showed no difference between specimens containing BNNTs and the control group. Mineral deposition occurred in all specimens containing BNNTs after 7d. In conclusion, the incorporation of BNNTs may provide bioactivity to resin-based dental sealants and reduce their surface free energy.