Effect of smear layer and surface roughness on resin-dentin bond strength of self-etching adhesives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of surface roughness and smear layer on the micro-shear bond strength (mu SBS) of two self-etching adhesives, Clearfil SE Bond (SE) and Clearfil Tri-S Bond (S3). Flat dentin surfaces were prepared with SiC papers (600-, 180- and 120-grit) and diamond burs (extra fine, medium and coarse). They were further divided into smear-covered and smear-free surfaces and bonded with respective adhesives. mu SBS test was performed after water storage at 37 degrees C for 24 h. Smear layer thickness measurement was evaluated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Surface roughness was examined by contact stylus profilometer. Smear layer thickness and surface roughness were significantly different among all groups (p<0.05). No difference in mu SBS was observed among surface prepared by SiC whereas bur-cut smear layer had negative effect on mu SBS, especially for S3. Surface roughness from different surface preparations had no influence on mu SBS (p<0.05).