[Damage to the dental pulp by composite bonding systems: leakage or toxicity]

The fourth generation bonding systems demonstrate an excellent adhesion to the dental hard tissues. The marginal seal along the composite-resin restoration does, however, not totally prevent microleakage and, moreover, the bonding system may deteriorate with time. Due to the attention that has been given to possible microleakage, the toxic effects of composite and its components have got less attention in recent years. The present article deals with the question whether the dental pulp is damaged by either microleakage and/or components of the bonding system.