Microscopic evaluation of the tooth-bond-composite interface. Images from SEM. Preliminary report.

INTRODUCTION Systems that bond composite material to enamel are constantly modernized (application is simplified and the number of system components is reduced). The latest products are one-coat systems combining etchant, primer, and bond. Use of such systems is easier for the dentist and adds to patient's comfort. The aim of this work was to evaluate microscopically the composite material--bond-enamel interface in a tooth processed with an abrasive technique. MATERIAL AND METHODS The material comprised premolar human teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. Cavities reaching the enamel-dentin border were created on the buccal surface of the teeth with the dental-prosthetic micropreparator (MSP). A self-etching Adper Prompt L-Pop system was applied (separate use of etchant was unnecessary). Bond application was according to manufacturer's recommendations. The cavities were filled with Point composite material from Kerr. Tooth samples were placed in the chamber of JEOL JSM 5500 LV scanning electron microscope and images were obtained at 15 kV. Strong bonding at the composite material-bond interface was observed as evidenced by the melting of composite particles into the self-etching bonding system.