Effect of Cleansing Solutions on the Bond Strengths of Self-Etch Adhesives to Saliva-Contaminated Dentin

This study determined the effect of cleansing solutions on microtensile bond strengths of self-etch adhesives to saliva-contaminated dentin. Seventy five human molars were ground flat to expose mid-depth dentin, and randomly assigned to 5 groups (n=15): no contamination, saliva contamination without cleansing, saliva and cleansing with water, saliva and cleansing with 2% chlorhexidine, and saliva and cleansing with 5% sodium hypochlorite. One third of the specimens in each group (n=5) were bonded with Adper Prompt L-Pop (all-in-one self-etch adhesive), one third with Adper Easy Bond (all-in-one self-etch adhesive), and one third with Clearfil SE Bond (self-etch primer system). Specimens were restored with composite, and processed for microtensile bond strength testing (5-6 rods/tooth). The cleansing solutions were able to cleanse saliva-contaminated dentin without adversely affecting the bond strengths of the self-etch adhesive systems. Our study showed that self-etch adhesive systems are not negatively affected by saliva contamination. iv AKNOWLEGDEMENTS Dr. André V. Ritter, my graduate school mentor, thank you for being understanding, patient, and for always being available to answer all my questions no matter how small. Operative Dentistry Faculty for being tremendous role models for all the residents. Barbara Walton for always making me feel part of the operative family. The last three years have been a joy because of your warmth and support. Operative Dentistry Residents for being supportive colleagues and true friends during my residency. My mother and father Abida & Aftab Hussain for making me who I am today. You are my true inspiration. My mother-in-law and father-in-law Farzana and Zafar Sheikh for being proud of me and always sharing my joys. My son Zane for making me smile, and opening up a beautiful new world for me to discover. My husband Shehzad for pushing me to pursue my dreams.