Adhesive dentistry
Etching, priming, bonding and isolation affect resin restoration longevity. Understand substrate differences between enamel and dentine.
Understand
Enamel and dentine bond differently. Etch, primer, adhesive, curing energy and polymerisation stress each affect interface quality; contamination can undo a correct sequence.
Assess
Plan isolation before preparation. Check margins, substrate and the manufacturer's protocol, especially for universal adhesives and indirect luting systems.
Apply
Do not assume all materials use identical conditioning steps. Keep adhesive layers and curing controlled, then inspect margins and occlusion at the end.
Key distinctions
Enamel bonding relies on predictable etch patterns, whereas dentine is wet organic tissue with tubules and a smear layer. Adhesive systems handle these substrates differently; follow the chosen product's protocol. Polymerisation contraction, cavity configuration and inadequate light exposure can create stress or incomplete cure even when the bonding steps appear correct.
Think through a case
A class II resin restoration placed in a moist field fails at the margin. A different adhesive brand will not compensate for poor isolation and contaminated substrate.
The distinction to remember
Do not forget curing access and light output. A correctly etched surface can still fail if polymerisation is inadequate.
Test your recall
Which substrate generally gives more predictable enamel bonding?
Show answer
Prepared, clean enamel under good isolation.