Scanning electron microscopy examination of 3 different adhesive systems

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Adhesive Dentistry

Background:

• Dental bonding systems are crucial for restoring tooth structure.
• Self-etch and total-etch bonding systems differ in their interaction with dentin.
• Understanding these interactions is key to improving restoration longevity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the dentin interaction of two self-etch resin bonding systems (Clearfil Liner Bond 2, Prime & Bond 2.1) with a total-etch system (Scotchbond Multipurpose).
• To evaluate hybrid layer thickness, resin tag penetration, and adhesive layer thickness using scanning electron microscopy.

Main Methods:

• Three bonding systems were applied to prepared dentin surfaces of extracted third molars.
• Specimens were prepared and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
• Quantitative and qualitative analyses of the interdiffusion zone were performed, including hybrid layer thickness and resin tag penetration.

Main Results:

• Clearfil Liner Bond 2 exhibited good dentin interlocking, comparable to Scotchbond Multipurpose and superior to Prime & Bond 2.1.
• Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in adhesive layer thickness, with Scotchbond being thicker than Prime & Bond.
• A trend towards differences was observed between Scotchbond and Prime & Bond, and Clearfil and Prime & Bond.

Conclusions:

• Clearfil Liner Bond 2 showed the most favorable interaction with dentin, producing the thickest hybrid layer and deepest tag formation.
• The study identified adhesive layer thickness as the primary differentiating factor among the systems.
• Clearfil Liner Bond 2 offers a promising alternative for dental bonding applications.