Current research: how to produce increased bond to enamel with self-etch bonding agents

By Gordon J. Christensen, DDS, MSD, PhD

There has been controversy relative to the adequacy of bond to enamel produced by self-etch bonding agents. One hundred and thirty bovine teeth were prepared for testing. The popular products Clearfil SE Bond and One-Up Bond F were included in the study. The bond to enamel produced by these products was compared with conventional phosphoric acid. Active (rubbing on tooth) application of two layers of the primer of the two products produced a significant improvement in bond to enamel comparable to the bond produced by phosphoric acid.

Torres CR, Barcellos DC, Pucci CR, Lima Gde M, Rodrigues CM, Siviero M. Influence of methods of application of self-etching adhesive systems on adhesive bond strength to enamel. J Adhes Dent. Aug. 2009; 11(4):279-286.

Dr. Gordon Christensen comments: This is a significant finding. Just repeat the primer application and rub in a circular manner as you have the primer on the preparation for 20 seconds. Research from another study shows that two layers of the bond material also increase the bond. Therefore, two layers of each of the solutions appear to be the desirable procedure.

Gordon J. Christensen Guide for Preferred Clients Jan./Feb. 2011; Vol. 16 Issue 1

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Author bio
Dr. Gordon Christensen is a practicing prosthodontist in Provo, Utah, and a diplomate for the American Board of Prosthodontics. He is the founder and director of Practical Clinical Courses, an international continuing education organization initiated in 1981 for dental professionals. Dr. Christensen is a cofounder (with his wife, Rella) and senior consultant of CLINICIANS REPORT (formerly Clinical Research Associates), which has conducted research in all areas of dentistry since 1976. Dr. Christensen is an adjunct professor for Brigham Young University and the University of Utah.