Effect of laser-etch on bond strengths of glass ionomers

This study evaluated the bond strength between glass ionomer cements and laser-etched dentin. Extracted human molars were sectioned sagittally, creating a flat surface. Samples were shear tested on an Instron testing machine, and mean bond strengths were recorded; statistical analyses indicated no significant differences between the Ketac cements. The bond strengths of both Ketac cements were significantly decreased when applied to laser-etched dentin, but bond strengths of Fuji-II were substantially elevated compared with the control values.