Gap formation between different cavity walls and resin composite systems on primary and permanent teeth

AIM: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of five self-etching and etch-rinse dentin-bonding agents in achieving a gap-free adaptation between the restorative material and the dentin in primary and permanent teeth. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Gaps located at the restoration dentin interface were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS: There were more gaps on the corner of the cavities, but no significant difference was detected between different cavity walls (p>0,05). Statistical results of the SEM analysis revealed fewer gaps in the restorations made with self-etching dentin bonding agents than etch-rinse agents at the restoration-dentin interface in both primary and permanent teeth. CONCLUSION: Self-etching bonding systems were preferable in primary and permanent teeth according to the results of this study. However, further studies should be conducted to determine a favorable strategy to eliminate the gaps on the corners of cavities and maintain a gap-free adaptation between resin composite and tooth structure.