Effect of immediate dentin sealing on bond strength and wettability in sound and eroded dentin: A laboratory study.

Purpose: To investigate the influence of immediate dentin sealing (IDS) on the shear bond strength (SBS) and wettability of both sound and eroded dentin.

Methods: Dentin specimens were divided into four groups (n= 21): sound dentin with and without IDS and eroded dentin with and without IDS. Erosive cycling was performed using 1% citric acid solution, and lithium disilicate discs were cemented onto the dentin. The samples underwent thermocycling and SBS testing (n= 10), with failure modes analyzed by stereomicroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) (n= 3) was used to examine the hybrid layer and resin tags, while wettability (n= 8) was measured by contact angle analysis.

Results: Erosion significantly reduced the SBS (P< 0.001), while IDS increased it for both sound and eroded dentin (P< 0.001). The most common failure mode was adhesive. SEM revealed a thicker hybrid layer and more resin tags in eroded dentin with IDS. Erosion did not affect wettability (P= 0.186), but IDS increased it (P< 0.001). IDS improved both SBS and wettability in sound and eroded dentin, suggesting it may be an effective technique for enhancing adhesion in restorative dentistry.

Clinical significance: Immediate dentin sealing (IDS) improves bond strength and wettability in both sound and eroded dentin, making it a valuable technique for enhancing adhesion in restorative procedures, especially in cases with compromised dentin. This could contribute to the durability and success of restorations.