Catechol-Phosphonate-Augmented Universal Adhesive for Hydrolysis-Resistant Dentin Bonds: A µTBS and Spectroscopic...

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Hydrolytic degradation at the resin-dentin interface compromises the longevity of dental restorations.
• Universal adhesives, often based on 10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate (10-MDP), face challenges in maintaining long-term bond durability.
• Improving interfacial stability is crucial for successful adhesive dentistry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of incorporating a catechol-phosphonate (CatP) co-monomer into a 10-MDP-based universal adhesive.
• To determine if CatP augmentation enhances resin-dentin bond durability and interfacial stability after aggressive hydrolytic aging.
• To assess the impact of CatP on water sorption and solubility of the adhesive system.

Main Methods:

• Fifty human third molars were used, divided into control and CatP-modified adhesive groups.
• Specimens underwent standardized bonding procedures followed by 10,000 thermocycles and 6 months of water storage.
• Microtensile bond strength and interfacial hydraulic conductance were measured; water sorption and solubility were also assessed.

Main Results:

• The CatP-modified adhesive exhibited significantly higher aged microtensile bond strength compared to the control group (34.10 MPa vs. 27.01 MPa).
• Interfacial hydraulic conductance was reduced by approximately 50% in the CatP group, indicating improved sealing.
• CatP modification resulted in significantly lower water sorption and solubility.

Conclusions:

• Incorporating CatP into a universal adhesive significantly enhances hydrolytic stability and bond strength at the resin-dentin interface.
• CatP modification improves the sealing ability of the adhesive interface without negatively affecting polymerization.
• This approach offers a promising strategy for improving the long-term success of dental adhesive restorations.