Search Results (177)

Velocity, pressure, and density fields computed in earlier three-dimensional direct numerical simulations of a statistically stationary, planar, one-dimensional, low-Mach-number hydrogen–air flame propagating in small-scale, moderately intense, spatially decaying turbulence are filtered out using top-hat filters of four different widths. Certain source/sink filtered terms in the transport equations for resolved and subfilter-scale kinetic energies are analyzed. These are (i) the rate of inertial transfer of kinetic energy between resolved and subfilter scales, (ii) baropycnal work, (iii) subfilter-scale velocity–pressure–gradient term, and (iv) subfilter-scale pressure–dilatation term. These filtered terms are averaged over transverse planes and time or conditioned to the filtered combustion progress variable. Results show that terms (i) and (ii) work to transfer kinetic energy from smaller to larger scales (backscatter) and from larger to smaller scales, respectively, with the baropycnal work dominating the former term. These trends are observed for mean and conditional terms. The mean velocity–pressure–gradient term is positive and works to increase subfilter-scale kinetic energy due to combustion-induced thermal expansion. The pressure–dilatation term changes its sign from negative to positive at the leading and trailing edges, respectively, of the turbulent flame brush. Under conditions of the present study, the magnitudes of the mean velocity–pressure–gradient and pressure–dilatation terms are smaller when compared to the baropycnal work. Probability Density Functions (PDFs) for the explored filtered terms exhibit long tails, are highly skewed, and are characterized by a large kurtosis, thus implying significant intermittency of inter-scale energy transfer and energy exchange between internal and kinetic energy in the flame. These PDFs indicate that the intermittency of the inter-scale energy transfer and energy exchange depends substantially on mechanisms and scales of energy injection. Full article

This in vitro study aimed to evaluate color recovery after 7 and 15 days of brushing with six whitening toothpastes that have different whitening mechanisms on coffee-stained anterior microhybrid composite resin. It also investigated the effects of brushing on surface microhardness. Disc-shaped specimens (2 mm thick, 10 mm in diameter) were prepared from a microhybrid anterior composite resin (GC G-ænial Anterior) (n = 10) and immersed in a coffee solution for 5 days to induce discoloration. Afterwards, the specimens underwent brushing simulation for 7 and 15 days using six whitening toothpastes and a non-whitening control toothpaste (Sensodyne Pronamel). Color changes were measured using a spectrophotometer based on the CIEDE2000 system, and surface microhardness was assessed with a Vickers microhardness tester. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). After coffee staining, all specimens showed discoloration exceeding the clinical acceptability threshold (ΔE₀₀ > 1.8). After 7 days of brushing, significantly greater color recovery was observed in the Signal Whitening System, Colgate Optic White, and Sensodyne Extra Whitening groups compared to other toothpaste groups (p < 0.05). By the end of the 15-day brushing period, all whitening toothpastes resulted in visually and clinically significant reductions in coffee-induced discoloration (ΔE₀₀ > 1.8), with the highest color recovery noted in the Signal Whitening System group (ΔE₀₀ = 2.52 ± 0.91). Regarding surface microhardness, significant increases were observed in all groups after brushing (p < 0.05). The Pronamel, Colgate Optic White, and Advance groups demonstrated significantly higher Vickers microhardness values compared to the Rocs group at the end of the 15-day period (p < 0.05). Full article

Internal wall grinding of pipes constitutes a critical pretreatment procedure in the anti-corrosion repair operations of Prestressed Concrete Cylinder Pipes (PCCP). To address the limitations of low efficiency and poor safety associated with traditional manual internal wall grinding in PCCP anti-corrosion repair, this study presents the design of a support-wheel-type internal wall grinding robot for pipes. The robot’s structure comprises a walking support module and a grinding module: the walking module employs four sets of circumferentially equally spaced (90° apart) independent-support wheel groups. Through an active–passive collaborative adaptation mechanism regulated by pre-tensioned springs and lead screws, the robot can dynamically conform to the inner wall of the pipe, ensuring stable locomotion. The grinding module is connected to the walking module via a slewing bearing and is equipped with three roller-type steel brushes. During operation, the grinding module revolves around the pipe axis, while the roller brushes rotate simultaneously, generating a composite three-helix grinding trajectory. Mathematical models for the robot’s obstacle negotiation, bend traversal, and grinding motion were established, and multi-body dynamics simulations were conducted using ADAMS for verification. Additionally, a physical prototype was developed to perform basic functional tests. The results demonstrate that the robot’s motion characteristics are highly consistent with theoretical analyses, exhibiting stable and reliable operation, excellent pipe traversability, and robust driving capability, thus meeting the requirements for internal wall grinding of PCCP pipes. Full article

This paper presents a nine-switch inverter for brushless operation of wound-field synchronous machines with excellent rotor flux regulation freedom. The manufacturing cost of permanent magnet machines is high due to the instability of rare-earth magnet prices in the global market. Moreover, conventional wound-field synchronous machines (WFSMs) have problems with their rotor brushes and slip-ring assembly, wherein the assembly starts to malfunction in the long run. Furthermore, recently, some brushless WFSM topologies have been investigated to eliminate the problems associated with rotor brushes and slip rings, but they have either a high cost due to a double-inverter, or low flux regulation freedom due to a single inverter (−i_d). The proposed nine-switch topology achieves a low cost by using a single inverter with nine switches and excellent flux control through three variables (−i_d, i_q, and i_f), making it highly suitable for wide-speed applications. In the proposed topology, the machine’s armature winding is divided into two sets of coils: ABC and XYZ. A 12-slot and 8-pole machine stator is wound with armature winding coils ABC and XYZ, creating six terminals for injecting currents and two neutrals from each ABC and XYZ coil set. The current to the ABC and XYZ coils is supplied by a nine-switch inverter. The inverter is specially designed to supply rated currents to the ABC winding coils and half of the rated current to the XYZ winding coils. The number of turns of the ABC and XYZ winding coils are kept the same so they produce the same winding function. However, the current in the XYZ winding coils is half compared to that of the ABC winding coils, which creates an asymmetrical airgap magnetomotive force (MMF). The asymmetrical airgap MMF contains two working harmonics, i.e., fundamental MMF for torque production and an additional sub-harmonic MMF component for rotor field brushless excitation. The rotor field is controlled by the difference in current of the two armature winding coils: ABC and XYZ. The proposed topology is validated through theoretical analysis and finite element simulations of electromagnetic and flux regulation. A 2D finite-element analysis is performed to verify the idea. The proposed topology is capable of establishing a 9.15 A dc current in the rotor field winding coil, which consequently generates a torque of 7.8 N·m with a 20.30% torque ripple. Rotor field flux regulation was analyzed from the stator ABC and XYZ coils current ratio ζ. The ratio ζ is analyzed as 2 to 1.3; subsequently, the inducted field currents were 9.15 A dc to 4.8 A dc, respectively. Full article

Healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) remain a significant global challenge, as pathogenic microorganisms can persist on hospital surfaces and medical equipment, contributing to severe infections and epidemic outbreaks. Conventional preventive measures, including disinfection procedures and personal protective equipment, are often insufficient to ensure complete microbial control, prompting interest in innovative antimicrobial surface technologies. This study reports the design, preparation, and comprehensive characterization of chitosan- and poly(ε-caprolactone)-based antibacterial coatings incorporating chlorhexidine-loaded zirconium phosphate (ZrPCHX) nanoparticles. Coatings were deposited by optimized spray and brush techniques to obtain uniform, adherent, and well-defined films. Their morphological, physicochemical, mechanical, and cytocompatibility properties were systematically evaluated, and antibacterial efficacy was assessed against clinically relevant pathogens following ISO 22196:2011 and additional protocols simulating realistic hospital conditions. Both coating systems demonstrated pronounced antibacterial activity, with the PCL-based formulation exhibiting a faster and broader bactericidal effect while maintaining good cytocompatibility. These findings support the potential of the developed nanostructured coatings as sustainable and scalable materials for the active decontamination of high-touch hospital surfaces, offering continuous antimicrobial protection and contributing to a reduction in HCAI incidence. Full article

Background/Objectives: The novel wave electric toothbrush is considered potentially helpful in removing subgingival plaque to prevent the occurrence of periodontal diseases. This study aimed to assess the cleaning efficacy of a novel wave electric toothbrush on subgingival plaque and its safety profile for oral soft tissues. Methods: In vitro cleaning efficacy evaluations were conducted using oral dental models. The wave electric toothbrushes were divided into low-, medium-, and high-swing parameter groups, with manual brushing (Bass technique) as the control. Simulated plaque was applied to the buccal and gingival sulcus sites of the four first molars, and the plaque removal area and sulcus cleaning depth were measured. For safety evaluation, Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were brushed on their molars daily for 30 days, with bleeding incidents recorded. Oral soft tissues were analyzed through H&E staining and immunohistochemical analysis. Statistical analysis included ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis (p < 0.05). Results: Medium- and high-swing groups demonstrated superior gingival sulcus cleaning efficacy, showing significant differences compared with the low-swing and control groups (p < 0.05). All swing parameters achieved complete plaque removal on buccal surfaces. No significant differences were observed between the low-swing and manual groups, or between the medium- and high-swing groups, regarding sulcus cleaning efficacy and maximum sulcus depth. During the 30-day in vivo experiment, medium- and high-swing groups showed low bleeding frequencies, primarily at the palatal gingiva and vestibule. Histological analyses indicated that higher swing parameters increased the likelihood of soft tissue injury. Conclusions: Wave electric toothbrushes enhance subgingival plaque removal, with higher swing parameters improving gingival sulcus cleaning. However, stronger parameters may increase the risk of soft tissue damage. Further clinical studies are required to establish optimal guidelines. Full article

Background/Objectives: Super translucent zirconia (ST zirconia) is increasingly used for esthetic restorations, but its optical stability after mechanical wear remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of three finishing protocols—polishing, glazing, and staining followed by glazing (Chroma + Glaze)—on the color stability and translucency of ST zirconia after simulated toothbrushing. Methods: Sixty zirconia specimens (Vita YZ ST, shade A1) were fabricated and divided into three groups, namely Polished, Glazed, and Chroma + Glaze (n = 20 in each group). Color (L*, a*, b*) was measured using a spectrophotometer (VITA Easyshade V; VITA Zahnfabrik) before and after 10,000 brushing cycles (200 g load, 1.5 Hz). Translucency parameters (TP_ab, TP₀₀) were calculated, while color changes were assessed using CIELAB (ΔE_ab) and CIEDE2000 (ΔE₀₀) formulas. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis tests (α = 0.05). Results: Treatment significantly affected translucency (H = 46.79, p < 0.001; H = 21.09, p < 0.001), indicating consistent differences among the three treatment groups. Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc comparisons showed that Chroma + Glaze exhibited significantly lower TP₀₀ values than Glaze in both measurements (p < 0.0001; p < 0.001), as well as lower values than Polished in both measurements (p < 0.0001; p = 0.0147, respectively). Kruskal–Wallis analysis revealed significant differences among finishing protocol groups for both ΔE_ab (H = 13.21, p < 0.0014) and ΔE₀₀ (H = 9.14, p = 0.0104), with Chroma + Glaze exhibiting the smallest ΔE values (ΔE₀₀ ≈ 0.33) below the perceptibility threshold. Conclusions: The finishing protocol significantly influences the optical behavior of ST zirconia after simulated wear. The Chroma + Glaze group demonstrated the highest color stability and lowest translucency, suggesting enhanced long-term esthetic performance. In contrast, polished zirconia showed greater color variation and an increase in translucency, indicating lower optical stability under brushing abrasion. Full article

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether any coating material would have a beneficial influence on maintaining color stability and surface roughness and to what extent an uncoated resin composite can keep its original color. The study evaluated three direct composite resins (Gradia Direct Anterior A2, Tetric EvoCeram A2, Filtek Z550 A2) using 30 samples per material (1 mm thick, 14 × 10 × 1 mm). Samples were prepared in 3D-printed molds, light-cured for 40 s, and initially smoothed with abrasive paper (grit 400–2000). The surface treatments applied were as follows: group 1—polished with a brush and Compo + polishing paste, group 2—conditioned with 37% phosphoric acid, ScotchBond adhesive applied, light-cured. All samples were cleaned ultrasonically for 5 min. Initial surface roughness and color were measured with a profilometer and spectrophotometer. Samples were then immersed in distilled water (control at 37 °C), Coca-Cola and red wine (at 10 °C) with surface roughness and color changes measurements taken on days 1, 7, 14 and 90. Immersion media were refreshed weekly. The most notable color changes after immersion in coloring solutions were observed in the groups treated with Coca-Cola and red wine compared with the control group in distilled water. Tetric EvoCeram sealed and Gradia sealed maintained the greatest resistance to perceptible coloration over 90 days, while Filtek Z550 performed the poorest. Tetric EvoCeram sealed maintained the greatest color stability (ΔE < 3.5 at 90 days), whereas Filtek Z550 sealed showed early degradation. Roughness is often decreased by surface sealing. As immersion time rises, unsealed surfaces often become noticeably rougher than sealed ones. This study simulates the oral environment and the exposure of restorative materials to staining agents. As the loss of esthetic properties over time is a continuous problem, the clinical significance of this research lies in demonstrating how a restorative material could resist pigmentation, when in contact with well-known high staining beverages, in order to maintain its esthetic properties and remain suitable for long-term use in the oral cavity. Moreover, the hypothesis that a coating material would protect the resin composite surface and reduce discoloration and surface roughness was tested. Full article

Under the condition of high-speed maize seeding, the collision between the seeds and the restraint seeding guide device, as well as the excessively high seeding speed, will lead to a sharp increase in the coefficient of variation in the seed spacing during seeding. To address these problems, this study designed a brush-belt-type seed-guiding device incorporating an auxiliary seed-receiving mechanism (ASRM). The aim of this device is to improve the stability of the brush tube in receiving seeds through the ASRM and to stabilize the seed spacing during seeding under the constraint of the brush belt and the seeding tube. Finally, the seeding speed is balanced by adjusting the rotational speed of the brush belt to achieve zero-speed seeding. A multi-body dynamics model of the seeding machine and a discrete element model of the soil were constructed. The seeding process of the device was simulated and analyzed using the discrete element method and multi-body dynamics (DEM-MBD) coupling simulation method. The seeding height and seeding angle were used as experimental factors, and a two-factor five-level orthogonal simulation experiment was conducted. The qualified rate of seed spacing, the re-seeding rate, and the missed seeding rate were used as experimental indicators. The results show that the optimal operating parameters of this device are as follows: seeding height of 46.8 mm, seeding angle of 25.5°, qualified coefficient of seed spacing of 96.03%, missed seeding rate of 1.76%, and re-seeding rate of 3.48%. Under the optimal working parameters of the device, speed performance verification tests were conducted. The research results show that when the operating speed is 12–16 km h⁻¹, the qualified rate of grain spacing is not less than 94.3%, the re-seeding rate does not exceed 3.92%, the missed seeding rate does not exceed 3.19%, and the damage rate does not exceed 0.19%. This study can provide a reference for the design and optimization of high-speed maize seeding devices. Full article

The clinical performance of interim restorations, particularly in the anterior region, largely depends on surface roughness (Ra) and color stability. This study investigated the influence of different toothbrushing durations on the surface roughness and color stability of CAD/CAM interim restorative materials subjected to varying polishing protocols. A total of 140 rectangular specimens (15 × 9 × 2 mm) were fabricated from highly cross-linked PMMA blocks (Telio-CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein) and allocated to two surface treatment groups: conventional polishing and surface coating with Optiglaze Color (GC Corp, Tokyo, Japan). Each group was further divided into seven subgroups (n = 10), including a control (no brushing) and groups that performed simulated brushing (DentArge TB-6.1, Analitik Medikal, Gaziantep, Turkiye) with distilled water or toothpaste (Colgate Total; Colgate-Palmolive, New York, NY, USA), for 2 weeks, 3 months, or 1 year. Ra values were recorded before (Ra0) and after brushing (Ra1), and color changes (ΔE₀₀) following immersion in coffee solution were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using a three-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD test (α = 0.05). Specimens coated with Optiglaze Color exhibited significantly lower Ra values compared with conventionally polished specimens (p < 0.05). The Con_Tp_1Yr group demonstrated the highest Ra value (0.53 ± 0.08 µm) compared to all other specimen groups (p < 0.05). A one-year brushing duration markedly increased ΔE₀₀ values in both surface treatment groups regardless of brushing medium (p < 0.05). While surface coating was more effective than conventional polishing in obtaining smoother surfaces at all brushing durations, prolonged brushing with toothpaste produced a progressive increase in surface roughness in both treatments. Ra values increased consistently over time, with the most pronounced changes observed after one year of brushing. Within the limitations of using a single CAD/CAM material, it may be concluded that surface coating improves the initial smoothness of interim crowns; however, extended brushing and different brushing media can intensify color changes, indicating that the long-term stability of surface-coated interim restorations may be compromised under abrasive conditions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Achieving and maintaining a smooth restoration surface is clinically significant, as surface roughness is linked to plaque accumulation, staining, and wear. This study aimed to evaluate in vitro the effect of different polishing paste systems on reducing surface roughness and to assess their performance after simulated post-operative maintenance through toothbrushing. Methods: A total of 128 cylindrical, flat-surface specimens were fabricated from a nanohybrid composite (Filtek Supreme XTE, 3M, USA) using a standardized metal mold. All specimens were finished with silicon carbide paper and polished with a two-step rubber disc system (Hi-Luster, Kerr, USA). They were then randomly assigned to 16 groups (n = 8) according to the polishing protocol. One group was polished with a prophylaxis paste, while the other fifteen groups were treated with pastes indicated for composite and/or ceramic materials. Polishing was performed with a flat buff wheel. To simulate clinical maintenance, specimens underwent a standardized toothbrushing cycle equivalent to three months of use. Surface roughness parameters (Sa and Sq) were measured at three stages with an optical profilometer: after initial polishing, after paste application, and after simulated toothbrushing. Results: Mean Sa values ranged from 0.065 to 0.560 and Sq values from 0.075 to 0.676. Significant differences were found among pastes for both parameters (p < 0.05). Two-way ANOVA revealed significant differences after polishing paste application, both before and after toothbrushing (p < 0.05). Toothbrushing increased roughness in most groups (p < 0.05), although no significant deterioration was observed for nine pastes in Sa and eight in Sq (p ≥ 0.05). Conclusions: Polishing pastes vary in effectiveness, and not all produce measurable improvements in surface smoothness. Their efficiency appears to be unrelated to the abrasive or the number of steps. Simulated toothbrushing over a three-month period may reduce the initial benefits, emphasizing the importance of careful clinical selection. Full article

This study investigates the effect of different sintering parameters on the surface roughness and fracture resistance of different CAD/CAM lithium disilicate ceramics before and after thermocycling and simulated toothbrushing. Sixty lithium disilicate ceramic samples were categorized according to ceramic type (AMB: Amber Mill, ECAD: IPS e.max CAD) and level of translucency (LT: low and HT: high) into four groups: AMB_LT, AMB_HT, ECAD_LT and ECAD_HT. Specimens were prepared to 2 mm thickness, crystallized, polished, and subjected to thermocycling to simulate five years of clinical aging. Simulated toothbrushing was performed using a soft-bristled mechanical brushing system under controlled force and strokes. Surface roughness was assessed using a profilometer before and after brushing, and fracture resistance was measured using a universal testing machine. Data were statistically evaluated using paired t-tests, one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc correction (p ≤ 0.05). LT lithium disilicate specimens exhibited significantly smoother surfaces than high-translucency counterparts. After thermocycling and brushing simulation, all groups showed a statistically significant increase in surface roughness, ranging between 0.239 ± 0.012 μm (AMB_LT) and 0.486 ± 0.014 μm (ECAD_HT). In terms of fracture resistance, the highest values were recorded for ECAD_HT (636 ± 8.29 N), and the lowest in the AMB_HT group (546.3 ± 21.9 N) with significant differences observed between materials and translucency levels. Sintering parameters and artificial aging significantly influenced the surface roughness and fracture resistance of lithium disilicate ceramics. Low-translucency variants demonstrated smoother surfaces and higher strength than high-translucency groups, while all materials exhibited increased roughness after aging. These findings provide guidance for the selection of lithium disilicate ceramics, balancing esthetic and mechanical requirements in anterior and posterior restorations. Full article

In the cold extrusion forming of thin-walled, specially shaped holes in aviation motor brush boxes, non-uniform metal flow can easily induce local stress concentrations on the punch, thereby accelerating wear. Reducing the punch wear and equivalent stress is therefore critical for ensuring the forming quality of such thin-walled features and extending the service life of the mold. In this study, a slender punch with a specially shaped cross-section was selected as the research object. The Deform-3D Ver 11.0 software, incorporating the Archard wear model, was employed to investigate the effects of five process parameters—extrusion speed, punch cone angle, punch transition filet, friction coefficient, and punch hardness—on the wear depth and equivalent stress of the punch during the compound extrusion process. A total of 25 orthogonal experimental groups were designed, and the simulation results were analyzed using the Taguchi method combined with range analysis to determine the optimal parameter combination. Subsequently, a multi-objective correlation analysis of the signal-to-noise ratios for wear depth and equivalent stress was conducted using the TOPSIS approach. The analysis revealed that the optimal combination of process parameters was an extrusion speed of 12 mm·s⁻¹, a punch cone angle of 50°, a punch transition filet radius of 1.8 mm, a friction coefficient of 0.12, and a punch hardness of 55 HRC. Compared with the initial process conditions, the integrated application of the Taguchi–TOPSIS method reduced the punch wear depth and equivalent stress by 21.68% and 42.58%, respectively. Verification through actual production confirmed that the wear conditions of the primary worn areas were in good agreement with on-site production observations. Full article

This study evaluated the effect of acidic environment and tooth brushing on the color stability and translucency of stained 3D-printed ceramic-reinforced composite (CRC) resins for indirect restorations and hybrid prostheses. Twelve specimens were prepared from each 3D-printing resin material: Ceramic Crown (CC), OnX (ONX), and Tough 2 (T2), and one CAD/CAM milling resin, Lava Ultimate (LU). After preparation, all specimens were stained, then immersed in either water or citric acid. Subsequently, the specimens underwent simulated tooth brushing for 3650 cycles. Color stability (ΔE) and translucency parameter (TP) were measured using a spectrophotometer. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, post hoc Tukey tests, and independent Student t-tests (α = 0.05). Material type, immersion medium, and their interaction did not significantly influence the mean ΔE (p > 0.05). The lowest ΔE value was for LU in acid (ΔE = 1.11 ± 0.39), and the highest for T2 in water (ΔE = 2.09 ± 1.47). Except for ONX and LU in acid, all materials had ΔE values above the perceptibility threshold (ΔE = 1.2). The mean TP was significantly affected by material type, immersion medium, and their interaction (p < 0.05). The lowest TP value was for group CC in acid (0.91 ± 0.26); the highest was for group LU in acid (6.24 ± 0.56). After immersion and subsequent tooth brushing, TP values decreased for all materials. Exposure to an acidic environment and tooth brushing did not affect color stability but significantly reduced translucency. Both the 3D-printed CRCs and milled resin material displayed comparable color stability below clinically acceptable thresholds, though the translucency of 3D-printed materials remained lower compared to milled material. Full article

Background: Peri-implantitis is the leading cause of implant failure, with a reported prevalence of 22–45%. Effective removal of bacterial biofilm from the implant surface is critical to non-surgical therapy. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of different implant surface cleaning methods across various bone defect configurations, considering operator experience. Methods: Thirty-six dental implants were coated to simulate biofilm, mounted in resin blocks with bone defects of varying geometries, and covered with silicone to simulate soft tissue. Three operators with differing levels of experience treated the implant surfaces using four instruments: a titanium curette (TiCu), ultrasonic scaler (US), titanium brush (TiBr), and air abrasion with erythritol (AirPo). Each combination was tested in triplicate. Implants were photographed and analyzed with dedicated software to quantify cleaning efficacy. Results: The expert dentist achieved the highest average cleaning efficacy (36.6%). The most effective tools were the titanium brush (37.2%) and ultrasonic scaler (35.0%), followed by the titanium curette (28.1%) and air-abrasion (22.9%). The first two instruments were the least operator-dependent. Among the defect types, the 60° defect was the easiest to clean. Complete implant surface decontamination was not achieved in any scenario. Conclusions: Ultrasonic scalers and titanium brushes demonstrated the highest and most consistent cleaning efficacy, independent of operator skill level. Sixty-degree defects were the most amenable to cleaning. These findings underscore the need to tailor decontamination approaches based on defect geometry and to consider combining non-surgical methods with adjunctive or surgical interventions, which may ultimately enhance clinical decision-making and improve treatment outcomes. Full article