RESUMO
OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the effect of moisture on the resin-dentin mu-bond strength (BS) and silver nitrate uptake (SNU) of three adhesive systems (Single Bond, One-Step and Syntac Single Component) soon after bonding (IM) and after 2 years of water storage (2Y). METHODS: Dentin surfaces were bonded on a dry (D), moist (W) or over-wet surfaces (OW). After restorations were constructed, specimens were stored in water (37 degrees C/24h). Resin-dentin sticks were prepared (0.8mm(2)) and they were divided for immediate (IM) and 2-year storage (2Y) testing. Half of the specimens from each period of time were tested in tension at 0.5mm/min and the other half was immersed in silver nitrate and examined by SEM-EDX. The data was analyzed by three-way repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey's tests (alpha=0.05). RESULTS: The overall BS (MPa) in the IM group under W condition was higher than in D and OW groups. After 2Y, the BS in W was lower than in the IM group, however higher than in the D and OW for OS and SB. The overall silver nitrate deposition (%) in the IM group under D, W and OW were similar. In the 2Y groups, the nanoleakage was higher than IM groups, however the increase was less pronounced in the W condition. SIGNIFICANCE: Higher BS and a significantly lower nitrate uptake were observed for IM groups, for OS and SB. Under W conditions, the BS reduction over time was less pronounced and less nitrate uptake occurred.