Calcium montmorillonite and montmorillonite with hydroxyapatite layer as fillers in dental composites with remineralizing potential

Abstract Calcium montmorillonite and montmorillonite with hydroxyapatite layer were used as fillers with remineralizing potential in composites for dental applications. These fillers were also modified using silane to improve their adhesion to the methacrylic resin. The effectiveness of fillers preparation has been confirmed by techniques such as X-ray Diffractometry, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, Nitrogen adsorption/desorption measurements, and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Calcium incorporation, mineralization of hydroxyapatite on the surface of montmorillonite, and particles silanization were conducted successfully. The usefulness of these composites as dental fillings was determined by examining the following properties: degree of conversion, depth of cure, flexural and compressive strength, mass stability, and remineralizing potential, understood as the ability to release calcium ions in the conditions simulating natural oral environment. All composites with calcium and hydroxyapatite forms of montmorillonite show the ability to release Ca2+; however, the remineralizing potential of calcium form of this mineral is significantly higher. Due to the ability to incorporate and release calcium ions, it is worth conducting further research on the application of this calcium-rich form of montmorillonite as an active filler in composites with potential dental applications.