Calcium forms of zeolites A and X as fillers in dental restorative materials with remineralizing potential

Zeolites A- and X-type were synthesized and subjected to the ion exchange to obtain their calcium forms which were further impregnated with methacrylic acid as bonding agent to improve the bonding between these zeolite fillers and components of methacrylic matrix in a final composites. The structure of synthesized zeolites, as well as impregnation efficiency, were confirmed by several analytical methods. The ability to release calcium ions, which are remineralizing agents, was confirmed after incubation of zeolite samples in saline. On the basis of these inorganic fillers a series of methacrylic photopolymerizable composites with potential dental applications were prepared and examined. Typical properties of these composites, such as depth of cure, mass stability and mechanical properties were examined. Their ability to release remineralizing calcium ions was also checked. All examined properties were dependent on the composition of the materials, i.e. the type of a filler, its synthesis method and surface impregnation. Obtained results showed that prepared zeolite fillers are beneficial for dental composites with remineralizing potential.