Effect of double layer application on bond durability of universal adhesives to proximal dentin-cementum gingival...

To evaluate and compare the effect on micro-tensile bond strength (µTBS) of a double layer application of three universal adhesives applied in self-etch mode to proximal dentin/cementum gingival margins of class II direct composite restorations, immediately and after 12 months water storage.

66 molars with compound class II cavities, with gingival margin 1 mm below CEJ, were divided into three groups according to the universal adhesive used. The adhesives evaluated included All-Bond Universal (AB), Single Bond Universal (SB), and Prime&Bond Elect (PB). The groups were further subdivided according to adhesive application technique, either single layer or double layer application. All teeth were restored with the same nanofilled resin composite. µTBS were examined at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/minute after 24 hours or 12 months water storage. Fracture mode was assessed under stereomicroscope. Data were analyzed by two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's post hoc test (P< 0.05).

The double layer application µTBS values were significantly higher than single layer application in all groups. Regardless of the type of adhesive or application technique, all subgroups showed significantly decreased bond strength after aging. There were significant lower µTBS values for AB adhesive compared with the other two adhesives that demonstrated no significant differences between them. The double layer application technique was effective in enhancing µTBS values of all tested adhesives bonded to proximal dentin/cementum gingival margins compared to single layer application. Regardless of application technique, all tested adhesives were incapable of defying long-term water aging.

The double layer application technique may be recommended to enhance the bonding durability of universal adhesives to face challenges in bonding to dentin-cementum cervical margins.