Biodentine management and setting time with Vicat and Vickers evaluation; a survey-based study on clinicians' experience

Purpose: of this paper was to analyse clinicians’ views on the management and handling procedures of the Biodentine tricalcium silicate cement with the following evaluation of the real setting time of the material with two independent physical tests. Design/methodology/approach: A survey study included 174 clinicians who answered the questionnaire designed to collect opinions on the Biodentine management during endodontic procedures. To verify the setting time of the cement, two independent hardness tests were performed. Macroscopic evaluation was carried out using the Vicat device. Microscopic assessment with subsequent SEM observation was conducted with the aid of the Clemex appliance. Findings: 43% of respondents using Biodentine in their practice described the setting time as long or definitively too long. One fifth of the dentists surveyed continue dental procedures without waiting. The setting time tests confirmed the existence of two phases of the Biodentine setting process, which corresponds to the general definition of cement setting. After mixing of the material, the initial setting stage lasts for 15 minutes. The next one, described by the authors as “maturation” of Biodentine lasts for 120 minutes. Research limitations/implications: The material initially sets within 15 minutes, however it is not the end of the process. In certain endodontic procedures the awareness of a longer setting time of Biodentine is essential for decision-making in root canal therapy. Practical implications: It is advisable to divide the endodontic treatment with Biodentine into two separate appointments. Originality/value: From the clinicians’ perspective the setting time and correct handling of Biodentine are crucial factors in the successful endodontic therapy. The information regarding proper material management is included in this paper

---

Opracowanie rekordu ze środków MNiSW, umowa Nr 461252 w ramach programu "Społeczna odpowiedzialność nauki" - moduł: Popularyzacja nauki i promocja sportu (2021)