Single-step, self-etch adhesives behave as permeable membranes after polymerization. Part I. Bond strength and morphologic evidence.

Abstract

For all adhesives, bond strengths decreased significantly to bonded hydrated dentin when the composites were activated with [2] or [3] (P< 0.001). Whereas the hybrid layer-adhesive interface was intact, water-blisters that developed along the adhesive-composite interface in these two modes were responsible for the decline in bond strength. When bonded to dehydrated dentin, delayed light-activation of the light-cured composite did not result in compromised bond strength. The results of chemical-cured composites improved but were more variable and system-dependent.