Effect of bacterial collagenase on resin-dentin bonds degradation

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of a bacterial collagenase on the degradation of resin-dentin bonds. Human dentin surfaces were bonded with: an etch-&-rinse self-priming adhesive (SB), a two-step self-etching primer/adhesive (SEB), and a 1-step self-etching adhesive (OUB). Composite build-ups were constructed. The bonded teeth were stored (24 h, 3 months, 1 year) in distilled water or in a buffered bacterial collagenase solution. Half of the specimens were stored as intact bonded teeth (Indirect Exposure/IE). The other half were sectioned into beams prior to storage (Direct Exposure/DE). After storage the intact teeth were sectioned into beams and all specimens were tested for microtensile bond strengths (MTBS). ANOVA and multiple comparisons tests were performed. Fractographic analysis was performed by scanning electron microscopy. The inclusion of bacterial collagenase in the storing solution did not lower the MTBS values over those seen in specimens stored in water. SB and SEB bonds strength were equal, and were superior to OUB. After 3 months of DE, SB and OUB bonded specimens showed decreases in MTBS; similar reductions required 1 year for SEB/DE. MTBS did not decrease in IE specimens except for OUB. Resin and collagen dissolution were evident in DE groups after storing.