Exploring the chemical and mechanical properties of functionalized bioactive glass powder‐based experimental pit and fissure sealants

Abstract This laboratory study aimed to synthesize and characterize experimental resin‐based sealants (RBSs) incorporating bioactive glass powders. An experimental formulation consisting of bisphenol A‐glycidyl methacrylate (bisGMA) and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) monomers was developed, incorporating 20 wt% of one of three distinct functionalized bioactive glass powders [S53P4 (Group 2), Biomin C (Group 3), or Biomin F (group 4)] along with 10 wt% of silica fillers in a resin composition of 70 wt%. The commercially available Seal‐Rite sealant was utilized as the control. Characterization of the bioactive powders was conducted using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The flowability, depth of cure, compressive strength (CS), diametral tensile strength (DTS), flexural strength (FS), and tensile strength (TS) of the formulations were statistically analyzed. XRD revealed increased crystallinity in bioactive glasses. FTIR indicated changes in molecular structures. SEM showed varied particle morphology among fillers. Group 2 (Biomin C) exhibited the highest flowability (15.72 mm), while Group 1 (control) had the lowest, that is, 10.31 mm. No significant differences in the depth of cure were observed. Group 4 had the highest CS (217.01 MPa), while Group 2 had the lowest (186.28 MPa). There were no significant differences in DTS, but FS and TS were significantly lower in Group 2 compared to other groups. The experimental RBSs incorporating functionalized bioactive fillers (Biomin C and Biomin F) demonstrated comparable mechanical properties relative to the control, if not superior. The findings underscore the potential of bioactive fillers in enhancing sealant performance. Highlights This laboratory study successfully formulated and characterized bioactive glass‐based resin sealants by incorporating functionalized bioactive fillers (S53P4, Biomin C and Biomin F) in combination with silica‐based fillers for enhanced mechanical performance of experimental resin based dental sealant. Comprehensive material characterization performed using FTIR, XRD, and SEM, revealing increased crystallinity post‐functionalization and structural changes indicating enhanced interaction between resin and bioactive fillers. Group with Biomin C bioactive fillers exhibited 52% higher flowability than the commercial control sealant, enhancing ease of application in clinical settings. While the Group with Biomin F demonstrated 17% increase in compressive strength (217.01 MPa) compared to the control, indicating improved durability under occlusal forces. Functionalized bioactive glass fillers, especially Biomin C and Biomin F, offer promising enhancements in both mechanical properties and clinical applicability of resin‐based dental sealants.