Effect of nanocrystalline cellulose/silica-based fillers on mechanical properties of experimental dental adhesive

This study aimed to develop a new dental adhesive based on the nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) along with silica in the resin matrix. Both filler components, including NCC and silica, were synthesized and characterized using various analytical techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, thermographic analysis, and cell viability. The fillers showed structural stability and cytocompatibility was achieved. After characterization, the fillers were added to the resin matrix in different concentrations (0–5 wt%) to prepare the dental adhesive. The prepared dental adhesives were evaluated by Vicker’s microhardness, biaxial flexural strength, flexural modulus, and shear bond strength. By adding NCC in the dental adhesives, the mechanical properties increased substantially. Nanocrystalline cellulose alone and in combination with silica filler has been investigated first time to improve the properties of dental adhesive.