Laboratory methods for measuring adhesive bond strength between restoration materials and hard tooth tissues

Abstract

Was to review laboratory methods measuring the bond strength of adhesive dental materials to hard tooth tissues. The paper points out the impact of test conditions on the measured strength of adhesive bond to dentine and enamel. Various in vitro studies are discussed, including the analyses of fracture surfaces and test-induced stresses. These studies are found to be helpful to identify particularities, advantages, and limitations of each approach. We present a systematic picture of available bond-strength data aimed at revealing general trends in adhesive performance. No clear superiority of any particular method for determining the bond strength between restoration materials and tooth tissues can be identified on the basis of reviewed literature. Therefore, no single universal approach can be at present proposed for determining the strength of adhesive bond.