Comparing the resistance of dentin bonding agents and pins in amalgam restorations

This in vitro study involving 84 caries-free molar specimens examined the resistance of complex amalgam restorations retained by two dentin bonding agents--Amalgambond and Amalgambond Plus--four regular TMS pins, six regular TMS pins and four pins in conjunction with Amalgambond. Analysis indicated that the Amalgambond restorations were significantly weaker than the other types. Amalgambond Plus restorations were significantly stronger than the Amalgambond restorations but not different from the remaining groups. The authors concluded that complex amalgam restorations should be retained with a combination of adhesive and mechanical retention.