Comparative evaluation of shear bond strength of a traditional composite and ACTIVA BioACTIVE after enamel preparation with Er:YAG laser and conventional acid etching: An in vitro study

Abstract

Objective: Traditional composites are strong and esthetic, but they have no bioactive potential and require bonding agents that have been shown to leak, cause white lines, staining, and failure. ACTIVA BioACTIVE is the first composite with an ionic resin matrix and bioactive fillers that mimic the physical and chemical properties of natural teeth. The aim of the study was to compare shear bond strength of traditional composite and resin-modified glass-ionomer bioactive ionic resin-based composite after enamel preparation with erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser and conventional acid etching. Materials and Methods: Forty sound extracted molars were divided into four groups of 10 samples each. In group I, specimens were bur treated followed by bonding of composite. In group II, specimens were laser treated followed by bonding of composite. In group III, specimens were bur treated followed by bonding of Bioactive. In group IV, specimens were laser treated followed by bonding of ACTIVA BioACTIVE. Buccal tooth surfaces were prepared approximately half of the enamel depth. A tube was filled with composite and placed on the treated tooth surface. Once the curing was complete, the tube molds were removed. After thermocycling, the shear bond strength testing was performed using the Instron Testing Machine, and the data were statistically analyzed. Results: Bur preparation followed by bonding of Bioactive yielded the highest bond strength followed by laser preparation. Conclusion: Er:YAG laser preparation caused decreased shear bond strength compared to conventional bur preparation.