Compressive strength, microhardness, and solubility of Zinc-Oxide Eugenol Cement Modified with E-Glass fiber fillers

Background: In restorative dentistry, zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) cements are among the most commonly used temporary materials. Eugenol has several therapeutic benefits, including sedative, anti-inflammatory, bacteriostatic, and pain-relieving properties. It is also advantageous because of its low cost and ease of application and removal. Researchers are trying to strengthen ZOE because, despite its benefits over other temporary fillers, including varnish, zinc polycarboxylate, and calcium hydroxide, it has a lower mechanical strength. Recently, E-glass fibers have shown great promise as reinforcing fibers because of their excellent mechanical behavior, sufficient bonding, and acceptable aesthetics. Objectives: To assess ZOE cements and those reinforced with manual incorporation of 10% E-glass fibers in terms of compressive strength, surface microhardness, and solubility. Methods: The control group was prepared by mixing dental ZOE powders with their liquid. The innovatively reinforced dental ZOE group was prepared by incorporating 10 wt.% E-glass fibers into the ZOE powder prior to liquid mixing. Particle size distribution (PSD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) were used to characterize the E-glass fibers. Evaluations of the modified group were conducted on its compressive strength, surface microhardness, and solubility. Independent-sample t-tests were used to statistically analyze the data and compare mean values (p < 0.05). Results: The findings demonstrated that, in comparison to the unmodified ZOE, the modified ZOE had a significantly lower mean value of solubility and a significantly higher mean value of compressive strength and surface microhardness (P≤0.05). Conclusion: The modified ZOE cements with 10 wt.% E-glass fibers provide enhanced compressive strength, surface microhardness, and reduced solubility, which encourages their use as permanent dental restorative materials.