An SEM examination of etched dentin and the structure of the hybrid layer

The clinical requirements of dentin bonds are that they should be non-permeable to oral fluids, seal dentinal tubules, protect the pulp, and be long lasting and durable. Dentin bonding systems that use acidic agents to remove the smear layer are currently being used. Acid conditioning not only removes the smear layer, but also demineralizes the surface of the intertubular dentin and produces intratubular demineralization and funnelling. A dentin bond is produced when hydrophillic resin monomers infiltrate the dentinal tubules and collagen of the demineralized intertubular zone, producing a hybrid layer. The use of a critical point drying technique and SEM allows a clear visualization of the structure of the hybrid layer. This study showed that currently used hydrophillic resin monomers are unable to completely infiltrate the demineralized zone, and it is speculated that this failure could contribute to microleakage and influence the long-term durability of the bond. It is also apparent that these bonds depend on the mechanical investment of collagen by the infiltrating monomer. Since none of the unfilled resins tested seem capable of completely infiltrating the demineralized collagenous zone, the degree of demineralization produced by the commercial acid concentrations in current use is questioned. More dilute acids than those available commercially are shown to reduce both the degree and depth of demineralization, and we suggest that the resultant thinner layer may lend itself to more complete resin infiltration of the collagen.