Shear bond strength of the adhesive/dentin interface after different etching protocols

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Adhesive Dentistry

Background:

• Composite resin bond stability to dentin is crucial for the longevity of esthetic dental restorations.
• Degradation of the adhesive interface is a primary cause of restoration failure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of chlorhexidine (CHX) on the bond strength of a total-etching system to dentin.
• To assess the influence of CHX on the durability of the adhesive interface under simulated aging conditions.

Main Methods:

• Human molar teeth were divided into three groups based on acid-etching protocols, including CHX application.
• Specimens underwent thermal cycling and water storage for up to 6 months.
• Shear bond strength was evaluated using mechanical testing.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in shear bond strength was observed between groups at 24 hours and 1 week.
• A significant decrease in bond strength occurred after 1 month for all groups.
• Chlorhexidine (CHX) application resulted in significantly lower bond strength after 6 months compared to the control group.

Conclusions:

• The use of chlorhexidine (CHX) as a dentin rehydration agent negatively affects the long-term bond strength of dental adhesive systems.
• Findings suggest that CHX may compromise the durability of the adhesive interface, potentially leading to premature restoration failure.