Chemical Surface Modification Methods of Resin Composite Repaired with Resin-Modified Glass-Ionomer Cement

Objective This study examined the chemical surface modification methods of resin composite repaired with resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (RMGIC). Materials and Methods Ninety aged resin composite rods were produced and sorted into 9 groups of 10 specimens and surface modified with silane agent and/or bonding agent as follows: group 1, no surface modified; group 2, etch + single bond 2 (SB2); group 3, SB2; group 4, etch + RelyX ceramic primer (RXP) + SB2; group 5, RXP + SB2; group 6, etch + single bond universal (SU); group 7, SU; group 8, etch + RXP + SU; and group 9, RXP + SU. A clear silicone mold was placed on the top of specimen center, and then filled with RMGIC. The specimens' shear bond strengths (SBSs) were examined in mechanical testing equipment. To determine failure types, the fractured specimen surfaces were inspected using a stereomicroscope. Statistical Analysis The data collected were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance, and significance level was operated using Tukey's test ( p < 0.05). Results Group 8 had the greatest SBS, but it was statistically indistinguishable from groups 4, 5, and 9. The most frequent fracture mode was adhesive failure. High SBS was commonly associated with mixed failure. Conclusion The use of bonding agents enhances the resin composite's wettability and allows it to bond to RMGIC. Moreover, the use of the silane coupling agent before applying bonding agent showed significantly higher bonding ability of resin composite and RMGIC interface.