Comparative study of the dentin/adhesive systems interface after treatment with Er:YAG laser and acid etching using scanning electron microscope

Background and objectives: To assess dentin/adhesive systems interface after dentin conditioning with Er:YAG laser.

Study design/materials and methods: Twenty-four dentin half-disks were assigned to 3 groups: All Bond 2 (AB); Optibond Solo Plus (OP); and Clearfil Liner Bond 2V (CL), which were divided into three sub-groups, according to dentin surface treatment: Er:YAG laser; Er:YAG laser plus acid; acid solely. After the adhesive protocol, specimens were embedded in resin, sectioned, and prepared for SEM analysis. Each area was examined under 1,500x magnification to assess the hybrid layer.

Results: Acid conditioning provided to AB and OP thick and homogeneous hybrid layer, as well as conical and uniform tags. The same pattern was observed for CL. In general, dentin treatment with laser, even when associated to acid, promoted irregular and thin hybrid layer, as well as scarce and thin tags.

Conclusions: Er:YAG laser influenced the adhesive systems interface, hampering hybrid layer formation.