Effect of chlorhexidine cavity disinfection on microleakage in cavities restored with composite using a self-etching single bottle adhesive

AIMS: This study evaluated the effect of 2% chlorhexidine cavity disinfectant on microleakage in class II cavities restored with light cured composites using a single bottle adhesive in an in vitro model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Proximal box cavities were prepared on mesial and distal surfaces of 40 non carious mandibular third molars, resulting in total of 80 cavities. Forty cavities on were rinsed with normal saline and 40 cavities were rinsed with 2% chlorhexidine cavity disinfectant. All cavities were restored with a single bottle adhesive and nano hybrid composite resin. Microleakage was evaluated at the gingival margin using methylene blue dye penetration method. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Chlorhexidine cavity disinfectants produced significantly higher microleakage while restoring the cavities using a self-etching single bottle adhesive.