Deproteinizing Agents as an Effective Enamel Bond Enhancer-An in Vitro Study

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Research
• Adhesive Dentistry

Background:

• Deproteinization is a crucial step in bonding procedures.
• Evaluating novel deproteinizing agents is essential for improving bond strength.
• Primary teeth present unique challenges in restorative procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of different deproteinizing agents on the shear bond strength of composite resin to primary teeth enamel.
• To investigate the potential of sodium hypochlorite, papain gel, and bromelain gel as deproteinizing agents.

Main Methods:

• Forty primary molars were divided into four groups.
• Enamel was etched with phosphoric acid.
• Groups received deproteinization with sodium hypochlorite, papain gel, or bromelain gel.
• Shear bond strength was measured using a Universal Testing Machine.

Main Results:

• Mean shear bond strength was highest with bromelain gel and lowest with the control group (phosphoric acid only).
• No statistically significant differences in shear bond strength were observed between the four groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Bromelain gel and sodium hypochlorite demonstrated effective bond strength compared to papain.
• While no significant differences were found, bromelain and sodium hypochlorite show promise as deproteinizing agents.