Atomic force microscopy studies of the interaction of a dentin adhesive with tooth hard tissue

The usefulness of atomic force microscopy (AFM) in the study of dental biomaterials was investigated. Two basic points were addressed: the first is the use of an atomic force microscope for the imaging of tooth hard tissue; the second is a study by AFM of the interaction of a liquid adhesive (Gluma) with dentin. Results show that dental tissues are readily imaged by AFM and that high-resolution images of the dentin ultrastructure can be obtained. As to the dentin adhesive, it was possible to elucidate the mechanism of action of Gluma. In particular, polymerization of the hydroxyethylmethacrylate present in the Gluma mixture was observed to occur in < 30 seconds.