Bonding strategies to deal with caries-affected dentin using cross-linking agents: Grape seed extract, green tea extract, and glutaraldehyde – An in vitro study

AIM: This study evaluated the effect of three collagen cross-linking agents – proanthocyanidins (grape seed extract [GSE] and green tea extract [GTE]) and glutaraldehyde [GA] on microshear bond strength (μSBS) of caries-affected dentin (CAD)-resin complex. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Freshly extracted 96 teeth with caries up to the middle third of dentin were sectioned through the deepest part of the occlusal fissure, perpendicular to the long axis of the crown. Caries was excavated with large round bur until firm dentin was obtained, confirmed by visual inspection and tactile examination. Flat occlusal dentin surfaces were treated as follows: Group-1 – 6.5% GSE (n = 30), Group-2 – 2% GTE (n = 30), Group-3 – 5% Glutaraldehyde (n = 30), Group-4 – control group (no agents) (n = 6). Each group was further divided into Subgroup A - Etch-N-Rinse 15s, Subgroup B - Etch-N-Rinse 45s, and Subgroup C - Self-etch. Two increments of 1.5-mm thick composite (Tetric-N-Ceram – Ivoclar Vivadent) with a 1-mm diameter were built-up. Each sample was subjected to μSBS test in Universal Testing Machine. Student's t-test was done for intragroup comparison and one-way ANOVA for intergroup comparison. RESULTS: Statistically significant difference was present in mean μSBS, with Group 1B showing the best results and Group 4C, the least. CONCLUSIONS: Thus, the application of these collagen cross-linkers, to CAD, increases μSBS and promises a new approach to improve dentin bond strength.