[S.E.M. analysis of composite resin surfaces applied to chemically and chemo-mechanically treated dentin]

The authors evaluated, at scanning electron microscope (S.E.M.), the morphological aspects of composite resin surfaces applied on dentin subjected, "in vitro", to chemical or chemo-mechanical treatments. S.E.M. photographs of dentinal surfaces of composite, applied on dentin treated with acid agents or Caridex, showed extensive penetration of resin tags into dentinal tubules and their deep adaptation to rough and winding dentinal surfaces. The obtained results have been evaluated in the light of recent advances in biocompatibility and long-term stability of composite fillings, in particular, to setting up new materials and methods in cavities preparation and treatment.