Effect of chemical cross-linkers on surface topography and microtensile bond strength of sound dentin: An in vitro study

AIM AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of two different collagen cross-linking agents proanthocyanidin (Grape seed extract [GSE] and 1-Ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide) on the surface topography of etched dentin and microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of resin dentin bond. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-two sound human 3(rd) molars were collected, and their occlusal surfaces were ground flat to expose dentin. Dentin surfaces were etched using phosphoric acid and then teeth were randomly divided into four groups, according to the dentin treatment: Group 1: wet bonding technique, Group 2: dry bonding technique, Group 3: 6.5% proanthocyanidin, and Group 4: 0.1M carbodiimide. Scanning electron microscope analysis was done for twenty specimens (n = 5 per group) at ×10,000 and ×30,000 magnification. Remaining 32 specimens were restored with TETRIC N-Bond adhesive systems and resin composite. After 24 h, teeth were sectioned to produce a cross-sectional surface area of 1.0 mm(2) and tested for μTBS. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and post hoc least significant difference test (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: When acid-etched dentin is treated by 6.5% proanthocyanidin (GSE) and 0.1M carbodiimide, followed by application of adhesives, it results in increased μTBS due to cross-linking of collagen fibrils.