Comparative evaluation of bonding performance between universal and self-etch adhesives: In vitro study

Area of Science:

• Dental materials science
• Adhesive dentistry

Background:

• Universal adhesives and self-etch adhesives are commonly used in dental restorations.
• Understanding their comparative performance is crucial for clinical success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare the bonding performance of universal adhesive and self-etch adhesives.
• To evaluate bond strength and microleakage using a selective acid-etching mode.

Main Methods:

• Selective acid-etching on human molar teeth (enamel and dentin).
• Microtensile bond strength and microleakage testing after 24h and 5000 thermocycles.
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fluorescent staining for interface morphology.

Main Results:

• Universal adhesive (Single Bond Universal) showed comparable bond strength and microleakage to self-etch adhesives.
• One self-etch adhesive (Clearfil Tri-S Bond) exhibited lower bond strength than others.
• All adhesives demonstrated effective penetration into dentinal tubules with abundant resin tags.

Conclusions:

• Self-etch adhesives are viable alternatives to universal adhesives in selective acid-etch mode.
• Both adhesive types offer similar bond strength and microleakage resistance.
• Effective sealing of restoration margins was observed for all tested adhesives.