Evaluation of Shear Bond Strength of Resin Cement on the Surface of a Lithium Disilicate Glass-Ceramic Restorative Material after Various Surface Treatments

Abstract

With bonded restorations gaining rapid popularity in clinical dentistry, manufacturers have introduced a variety of bonding protocols and materials. These materials, including surface modifiers and cleaning agents, are designed to decontaminate surfaces and enhance bonding effectiveness. In this study, six different combinations of mechanical and chemical modifications were tested on a lithium disilicate surface to determine the combination that offers optimal resistance to shear stresses. The tested surface modifications included 9% hydrofluoric acid, sandblasting with 29 μm aluminum oxide (Al2O3) particles, Ivoclean (a recently introduced decontamination agent), Monobond Etch & Prime (a one-stage etching and priming agent for ceramic surfaces), Monobond Plus (a silane agent), and the bonding agent Adhese Universal. Six different sequence combinations were tested and compared to the negative control group. The highest bond strength was achieved using all materials and cleansing methods in a logical order, while the bond strength was lowest in the absence of surface modification (control group). The results indicate a significantly positive influence on bond strength of silane coupling agents present in surface modifiers, including pure forms like Monobond Plus. Potential negative effects of cleansing agents or methods on bond strength were not observed. Multiple and separate stages in the treatment of the lithium disilicate surface positively impact bond strength. Cleansing agents may prove beneficial in clinical conditions, and they do not interfere with bonding.