Effect of load cycling and in vitro degradation on resindentin bonds using a self-etching primer

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of in vitro degradation and mechanical loading on microtensile bond strength (MTBS) and microleakage (ML) of a resin composite to dentin using a self-etching primer adhesive [Clearfil SE Bond (SEB)] under two hydration statuses. Twenty-four flat dentin surfaces were divided in groups: 1) blot-dried, 2) air-dried. SEB was applied and resin buildups were performed with Tetric Ceram. Specimens were divided in four subgroups: a) sectioned into beams, b) load cycled, c) beams were immersed in NaOCl for 5 h, d) load cycled and immersed in NaOCl. Beams were tested in tension. For ML testing, 80 Class V cavities were prepared and molars divided in subgroups as described above (in group c and d, specimens were kept in distilled water for 1 year, instead of the 5-h NaOCl immersion). ML was assessed by dye penetration. Analysis of variance and multiple comparisons tests were used for MTBS. For ML, Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon matched pairs signed ranked were used (p < 0.05). SEB applied to completely dehydrated dentin produced the highest MTBS, at 24-h evaluation. In vitro degradation always decreased MTBS, and fatigue loading only diminished MTBS on dehydrated dentin. Load cycling increased dye penetration on dentin margins. Degradation always increased ML in both enamel and dentin margins.