Adhesive Bond Strengths to Enamel and Dentin Using Recommended and Extended Treatment Times

Abstract

Clinical Relevance Self-etch adhesive systems are promoted as being more efficient for bonding procedures by using fewer treatment steps to condition tooth surfaces for bonding resin-based materials. Concern has been expressed regarding the ability of the newer self-etch adhesives to yield strong, durable bonds when compared to more traditional etch-and-rinse systems. Extending the treatment time of etch-and-rinse and self-etch adhesives does not appear to result in relevant increases in the bond strength of resin composites to enamel or dentin.