EC Paediatrics

Introduction and Aim: Recurrent caries remains a significant challenge in restorative dentistry, with the quality of adhesion between composite materials and dentin playing a crucial role in the longevity of dental fillings. The development of adhesive systems and protocols has aimed to improve the bond strength and reduce postoperative sensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate the adhesion quality of composite restorative materials to dentin using different adhesive preparation techniques for both vital and non-vital teeth.

Methods: This was a laboratory-based experimental study involving 60 extracted teeth from patients aged 18 to 55 years. The teeth were divided into four groups: two control groups (vital and non-vital teeth restored with a standard adhesive protocol) and two experimental groups (vital and non-vital teeth restored using a 5^th-generation adhesive system with additional post-acid treatment). The adhesion quality was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy to assess the marginal gaps between the composite material and dentin.

Results: The study found that marginal adaptation defects were observed in 100% of vital teeth in the control group, with a maximum gap of 34,056.28 nm. In contrast, the experimental groups showed significantly reduced marginal gaps, with the lowest observed gap in the group using post-acid treatment (7%). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) between the control and experimental groups, with the post-acid treatment protocol improving adhesion quality.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated that the use of a post-acid treatment protocol, involving ethanol and chlorhexidine, significantly improves the adhesion of composite restorative materials to dentin, especially in non-vital teeth. This approach may enhance the durability and stability of dental fillings, reducing the risk of postoperative sensitivity and improving treatment outcomes.

 Keywords: Dentin Adhesion; Composite Material; Adhesive System; Chlorhexidine; Scanning Electron Microscopy; Caries Prevention

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