Effect of filler loading on resin cement bonding to silanized buildup composites

PURPOSE: To determine the effects of silanation for core buildup composites on bond strength of resin cement. METHODS: Three core buildup composites including FluoroCore LV, Core Restore, and Clearfil Photo Core, of which filler loadings were 65 wt%, 74 wt%, and 83 wt% respectively, were used. All composite specimens were randomly divided into four surface treatment groups of eight each as following; 1) 600-grit ground only, 2) 600-grit ground plus silanation, 3) 600-grit ground plus air-particle abrasion, 4) air-particle abrasion plus silanation. Following these treatments, 4-META/MMA-TBB resin (C&B Metabond) was bonded to the specimen surfaces. Completed specimens were stored in 37 degree C water for 24 hours, and then thermocycled 20,000 times (4 degree C - 60 degree C) before shear bond strengths were tested. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Scheffé's test for statistical significance (P < 0.05). RESULTS: Clearfil Photo Core, of which filler loading was the highest among the resin composites tested, treated with air-particle abrasion plus silanation obtained the highest bond strength. However, silanation alone was not effective for improving the bond strength.