Effect of Remineralizing Agents on Bond Strength of Resin-Composites to Primary Enamel

Aim: The purpose of this in vitro investigation was to assess the effect of three remineralizing agents (Voco Remin Pro^®, Uncle Harry's remineralization kit, Sunshine remineralization gel) on the shear bond strengths of two resin-composites (Tetric^® N-Ceram and Filtek^™ Z250 Universal Restorative) to enamel of primary molars. Study design: Ninety-six enamel specimens were prepared and randomly distributed to eight groups according to the control, remineralizing agents, and resin composite used. Shear bond strength was measured at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min and the type of bond failure was recorded. Results: The highest shear bond strength (Mean+SD) in MPa was for Tetric^® N-Ceram/control [21.06+1.68] while the lowest was for Filtek^™ Z250/Sunshine remineralization gel [11.98+1.46]. Tukey HSD Post Hoc Tests showed significant difference between Tetric^® N-Ceram/control and all other groups (p=0.0001) except Filtek^™ Z250/control. In addition, there was significant difference between Filtek^™ Z250/control and all other groups (p=0.0001) except Tetric^® N-Ceram/control and Tetric^® N-Ceram/Uncle Harry's remineralization kit. Mode of failure was cohesive (9.38%), adhesive (55.21%), and mixed (35.42%). Conclusions: The three tested remineralizing agents affect shear bond strength of the tested resin-composites to enamel of primary teeth. In general, shear bond strength values were acceptable. Mode of failure was mostly adhesive.