Morphological characterization of the resin-dentin interface in primary teeth

The effects of self-etching adhesives on primary teeth were evaluated. Reports in the literature suggest differences between the first and second dentition regarding the composition and the morphology and, therefore, a possible difference in the performance of dental adhesives. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of self-etching adhesives on primary dentin. Eight dentin disks were obtained from the occlusal surface of primary molars. The disks were divided between four dental adhesives [Prompt L-PoP (LP), Clearfil SE BOND (SE), Etch&Prime 3.0 (EP) and Prime&Bond NT (PB) + H(3)PO(4) (Control) and "restored" with a composite (Pertac II)]. After sectioning, fixation and HMDS drying, specimens were polished and Field Emission SEM examinations were carried out. Clearly visible hybrid layer formation was found for PB, LP and EP. An undoubtedly detectable interdiffusion zone was not evident after the use of SE. A clearly visible adhesive layer was recognizable for PB, EP and SE, but not continuously detectable for LP. Debonded regions were observed for all systems evaluated, but distinct differences in the failure mode were detected. The evaluated dental adhesives did not generate completely sealed interfaces between the composite resin and the dentin of primary teeth in vitro.