Influence of chemical and natural cross-linkers on dentin bond strength of self-etching adhesives

Abstract Objectives. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of chemical collagen cross-linkers on the bond strength of three self-etching adhesives to dentin. Materials and methods. Exposed dentin from the buccal surface of 45 incisors bovine was used to analyze the effect of chemical cross-linkers. The control groups were tested with self-etching adhesives (Clearfil SE Bond, Clearfil SE Protect and One-up Bond F Plus) according to the manufacturer instructions. Two cross-linkers agents were tested: 5% glutaraldehyde and 6.5% proanthocyanidin-rich grape seed extract (both for 10 min). After surface treatments with the agents, the surfaces were washed with distilled water, followed by the bonding/build-up procedures. Restored teeth were prepared for microtensile bond strength test and specimens tested in a universal testing machine (0.5 mm/min) after 24 h storage. Fracture sites of the bonded interface qualitatively evaluated. Results. According to two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (p 0.05). However, when the grape seed extract was used with Clearfil SE Bond, the dentin bond strength values increased (p 0.05). Conclusions. The effect of the application of grape seed extract cross-linker was product-dependent and glutaraldehyde did not affect the bond strength to dentin.