SEM Analysis of the Interface of Five Adhesive Systems

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the interface ultrastructure at dentin and hybrid layer formed by novel adhesives with TiO2 nano-fillers. Nano-fillers have shown outstanding mechanical properties and they are widely used as reinforcing materials associated with polymeric matrices for high performance applications. Twenty extracted non carious human teeth were utilized for evaluation of the bonded interface using scanning electron microscopy. The experiments used four novel adhesives (noted A1, A2, A3, A4). Phosphoric acid (5s, 37%) and a commercial resin composite Herculite XRV (Kerr) filling were used for the surface treatment. The interface was studies using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) using a microscope Inspect F-FEI Company. The experimental results indicated the main benefits and disadvantages of the investigated adhesives systems. SEM of the adhesive dentin interface revealed a HAp (hydroxyapatite) – rich and homogenous hybrid layer. This layer produced a favourable sealing of damaged dentin.