Self-Adhesive Resin Composites: Are they the Ultimate Bonding Solution?

Aim: To evaluate the bond strength of self-adhesive flowable composite (SAFC) with or without bonding application and compare it to that of conventional flowable composite. Subjects and Methods: A total of 15 extracted human premolars devoid of cavities were gathered. After the teeth were set individually in acrylic molds, the enamel was removed with a diamond disc and then dentin was flattened using silicon paper. The specimens were randomly divided into 3 groups: Group 1 was self-adhesive flowable composite without bonding, Group 2 was self-adhesive flowable composite with universal bonding agent application, and Group 3 was conventional flowable composite with universal bonding agent application. Two specimens were prepared on each tooth so that each group contains 10 specimens (n=10). Micro-shear bond strength was measured using universal testing machine, and mode of failure was assessed using stereomicroscope. Results: The mean value of Group 2 (18.66±8.21MPa) was significantly greater than that recorded in both Group 3 (10.43±5.39MPa) and Group 1 (4.38±3.69MPa). Conclusion: The bond strength to the dentin substrate was compromised when self-adhesive flowable composite was used alone without prior bonding agent application.