A rapid nondestructive method for root dentin moisture measurements: in vitro pilot study

Dentin moisture content is important in adhesive bonding and structural strength research; however, there is no rapid method available to assess dentin moisture without sample destruction. This study examined the use of a digital grain moisture meter to measure root dentin moisture in vitro. Extracted mandibular single-rooted teeth were sectioned at the CEJ. The moisture of the root dentin was measured at 6 measuring modes for different grains and repeated 5 times. Dentin weight changes before and after drying were measured to obtain control values. The control values were compared with machine readings. In conclusion, (1) each nondestructive measurement took less than 30 seconds, (2) 24 hours of storage at 37°C and 100% humidity did not restore dentin moisture, and (3) 5 grain modes had a high validity and could be used for dentin moisture measurements.