Chlorhexidine does not improve but preserves bond strength to eroded dentin

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Adhesive Dentistry
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Dental erosion compromises dentin structure, potentially affecting the longevity of adhesive restorations.
• Chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) is an antimicrobial agent with potential effects on dentin bonding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of varying chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) concentrations on the bond strength of dental adhesives to eroded and normal dentin over a 6-month period.

Main Methods:

• Dentin specimens were prepared as either normal or eroded (cola-treated).
• Specimens were treated with distilled water, 0.004% CHX, or 2% CHX before adhesive application.
• Microtensile bond strength (μTBS) was evaluated immediately and after 6 months of aging.

Main Results:

• Bond strength to eroded dentin was consistently lower than to normal dentin.
• CHX application showed no immediate significant effect on bond strength.
• After 6 months, 2% CHX significantly mitigated the loss of bond strength in both eroded and normal dentin groups.

Conclusions:

• The 2% chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) concentration demonstrates a protective effect against bond strength degradation over time, particularly in aged dentin.
• This suggests a potential role for 2% CHX in enhancing the durability of dental adhesive restorations on compromised dentin substrates.