Shear bond strength of seven dentin bonding systems (DBS) was evaluated. After shear bond testing, the specimens were analyzed under scanning electron microscope (SEM). Buccal dentin just below the dentin-enamel junction of erupted third molars of young subjects were used. A statistical difference was observed among the material bond values. SEM examination of both sides of the sheared bonds frequently showed an adhesive failure between dentin and bonding agents in the specimens where resin penetrated into the opened dentinal tubules. A complex cohesive fracture of both resin and dentin was observed for bonding agents that required the treatment of the smear layer, while a cohesive fracture in the smear layer thickness was noted when dentin was not altered by primer solutions. The study demonstrated that the DBS that require the removal of the smear layer showed a significantly higher shear bond strength and that the bond value reflects the mode of material fracture and the presence of smear layer.