Work

Effect of surface preparation methods on the shear bond strength of universal and self-etch adhesive systems: an in vitro study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objectives: To assess the impact of three smear layer preparation methods on shear bond strength (SBS) to enamel and dentin, using two universal adhesives (Tetric N-Bond Universal, 3M Single Bond Universal) and one two-step self-etch adhesive (Kuraray Clearfil SE Bond). Methods: Ninety extracted premolars were assigned to enamel and dentin groups (n = 45 each) and prepared with coarse grit (120), fine grit (600) silicon carbide paper, or air abrasion (Aluminium Oxide for enamel, Sylc for dentin). Surfaces were bonded with one of the adhesives and restored with composite. Enamel was treated in an etch-and-rinse mode, dentin in self-etch mode. SBS was tested using a universal testing machine. Failure surfaces were examined under SEM to assess fracture morphology and EDS to determine elemental composition. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA/Tukey's post-hoc test and Weibull statistics (P ≤ 0.05). Results: In enamel, SBS generally increased from coarse to fine to air abrasion. Kuraray Clearfil SE Bond yielded the highest values, particularly with air abrasion (9.11 ± 0.51 MPa). In dentin, fine grit achieved the highest SBS across all adhesives, followed by air abrasion; coarse grit showed the lowest. Kuraray consistently outperformed the universal adhesives in most dentin conditions. SEM/EDS revealed predominantly adhesive failures; occasional cohesive failures in dentin (Ivoclar) and enamel (Kuraray) corresponded with higher SBS and Weibull reliability. Conclusion: Both surface preparation and adhesive type significantly influence SBS. Kuraray showed superior performance and reliability, while fine grit and air abrasion enhanced bonding efficacy. SEM/EDS findings corroborated the mechanical results.

Source: Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2026.101408

Authors: Shiwangi Verma, Ravishankar Suman, Rajendra Goud, Snigdho Das, Srikant Gollapudi, Samapika Routray

Institutions: All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bhubaneswar, Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar

Language: English

Topic: Dental materials and restorations

Subfield: Orthodontics

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,800