Effects of non‐thermal atmospheric pressure pulsed plasma on the adhesion and durability of resin composite to dentin

This study investigated the effect of low‐power, non‐thermal atmospheric pressure plasma (NT‐APP) treatments, in pulsed and conventional modes, on the adhesion of resin composite to dentin and on the durability of the bond between resin composite and dentin. A pencil‐type NT‐APP jet was applied in pulsed and conventional modes to acid‐etched dentin. The microtensile bond strength (MTBS) of resin composite to dentin was evaluated at 24 h and after thermocycling in one control group (no plasma) and in two experimental groups (pulsed plasma and conventional plasma groups) using the Scotchbond Multi‐Purpose Plus Adhesive System. Data were analyzed using two‐factor repeated‐measures anova and Weibull statistics. Fractured surfaces and the bonded interfaces were evaluated using a field‐emission scanning electron microscope. Although there were no significant differences between the plasma treatment groups, the plasma treatment improved the MTBS compared with the control group. After thermocycling, the MTBS did not decrease in the control or conventional plasma group but increased in the pulsed plasma group. Thermocycling increased the Weibull moduli of plasma‐treated groups. In conclusion, plasma treatment using NT‐APP improved the adhesion of resin composite to dentin. Using a pulsed energy source, the energy delivered to the dentin was effectively reduced without any reduction in bond strength or durability.