ABSTRACT
This study evaluated the effects of two exogenous enzymes on the resin-dentin interface. Collagenase (Col) and acetylcholinesterase (Ach) were used to simulate salivary enzymes and accelerate the aging process of the bonding interfaces. Four adhesives, Adper Single Bond 2 (SB), Clearfil SE Bond (SE), Clearfil tri-S Bond (S3) and G-Bond (G), were bonded to the dentin surfaces. After storage in water with collagenase or acetylcholinesterase, the specimens were examined using a microtensile bond strength test (MTBS). Nanoleakage patterns were observed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The MTBS results demonstrated significantly lower bond strengths in the groups stored with either enzyme than in water. SB exhibited severe degradation after exposure to collagenase, while G showed severe degradation after exposure to acetylcholinesterase. All of the self-etch systems (SE, S3 and G) exhibited water-tree patterns within the adhesive layer when immersed in water for three months. The etch-and-rinse system (SB) showed nanoleakage within the hybrid layer and the adhesive.
