Adhesion to teeth

Using standard surface chemical techniques it can be demonstrated that under physiological conditions, the adhesive properties of human enamel and dentine are created by the volumetrically small organic portion of these tissues. As far as their adhesiveness is concerned undamaged teeth therefore do not differ considerably from other types of biological tissues. Generally speaking the presence of low energy, organic films will act to prevent formation of strong adhesive contacts between tooth surfaces and e.g. bacteria, food stuffs or restorative materials. By certain types of direct surface treatments the adhesiveness of tooth surfaces can be changed temporarily or permanently in ways that will either increase or decrease the chances to obtain strong adhesive contacts. Under physiological conditions teeth are covered with rapidly forming salivary films which reduces the possibility to obtain strong adhesive contacts with teeth. If clinically useful adhesion to tooth surfaces is to be obtained the teeth involved must therefore be kept isolated from saliva during the operative procedures.