Effects of one versus two applications of an unfilled, all-in-one adhesive on dentine bonding

Objectives. This study examined the null hypothesis that there is no difference between the effect of a one versus two-layer applications of Prompt L-Pop (3M ESPE, Seefeld, Germany) to sound, abraded human coronal dentine. Methods. In group I, the mixed adhesive was applied for 15 s, and light-cured for 10 s. In group II, after light-curing the first layer, the adhesive was re-applied and light-cured. Specimens bonded with a hybrid composite were sectioned into beams for microtensile bond strength evaluation. Additional teeth from each group were bonded similarly using a lining composite for transmission electron microscopy examination of the resin-dentine interfaces, and nanoleakage evaluation using ammoniacal silver nitrate. Results. A significant difference (p < 0.001) was detected between microtensile bond strengths in the two groups. Stained, demineralized sections revealed 3-5 mum thick hybrid layers in both groups. An electron-lucent layer between 7 and 20 mum thick was present between the adhesive and the overlying composite. This layer was absent from the interfaces after removal with ethanol before composite placement. The use of a single application in group I resulted in the direct contact of the electron-lucent layer with the dentine surface and tubular orifices. In unstained, undemineralized sections used to evaluate nanoleakage, silver deposits were found mostly in the hybrid layer in group II, but throughout the entire adhesive layer in group I. Conclusion. Bonding of this unfilled all-in-one adhesive to dentine may be improved by application of a second adhesive layer after light-curing the first layer. This ensures that the exposed dentine surface and dentinal tubules are coated with adhesive that is adequately polymerized. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.