The aim of this study was to develop and characterize a temporary restorative material based on a zinc oxide matrix containing niobophosphate bioactive glass (NbG) for the caries-affected dentin treatment.
NbG was added to a ZnO 2 matrix in different concentrations (wt%). EDS-SEM, ATR-FTIR and XRD analyses were performed to characterize the cement. Calcium release was evaluated in TRIS solution after 1, 7 and 14 days by colorimetric method (A 650). Compressive strengths and setting times were performed to analyze mechanical properties.
EDS spectra confirmed the presence of Ca, P and Nb in the groups containing NbG. EDS mapping exhibit the ZnO 2 homogeneous distribution, and NbG immersed in this matrix. Peaks suggesting interaction between matrix and NbG were not detected in Ftir spectra. Calcium releasing showed to be time-dependent for experimental groups containing 10, 20, 30 and 40%. The NbG incorporation progressively increased the compressive strength values in the experimental groups. NbG incorporation seemed to influence the ZnO 2 matrix early setting reaction. No statistical difference was observed in the final setting time.