Evaluation of Shear Bond Strength a Composite Resin to I-CON Fissure Sealant with Different Surface Treatment

Introduction: Fissure sealants are one of the most proven ways to prevent tooth decay. These materials may remain on the tooth for a long time, and other areas of the tooth may decay. The purpose of this study was to present the best method for surface preparation a fissure sealant material (Icon) and composite restoration Materials and Methods: In this experimental laboratory study, 40 samples of composite restorative material were prepared in 4 groups of 10 discs of 6 mm in diameter and 2 mm in height. Total etch bonding agent was used in the first, second and third groups without surface preparation, with the use of drills and 37% phosphoric acid, and after drilling, respectively. In the fourth group, self-etch bonding agent was used after drilling. After that, Icon resin material was placed on the surface of the composite in a disc of 4 mm with height of 2mm in diameter and was cured. When the samples were thermocycled and incubated, their bonding strength was evaluated with Instron testing machine. Data were analyzed by one-way variance statistical ANOVA tests, Tukey test (p value < 0.05). Results: The mean value of bond strength of Icon to resin composite was significantly different among the 4 groups (p value < 0.05). The fourth group presented the greatest bond strength value while the third group had the lowest bond strength. Conclusion: When repairing fissure sealant, particularly Icon using resin composite, the best results of bond strength are achieved through surface roughening with drills and the application of self-etch bonding agents with a mild pH. Acidic etching agents (37% Phosphoric acid), however, have probably destructive effects on bond strength.