Bond strength and failure patterns of adhesive restorations in primary teeth aged in the oral environment.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the bond strength and micromorphology of the fracture pattern of adhesive composite restorations in primary teeth after long-term clinical function. METHODS: Subjects (8-10 years-old) with deep carious lesions in primary molars had their teeth restored with resin composite (Z250). The teeth were randomly divided into two groups, according to the adhesive system used: (1) Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (SMP); and (2) Clearfil SE Bond (CSE). After the clinical and radiographic follow-up period (15-17 months), the teeth were exfoliated and the adhesive restorations were subjected to microtensile bond test. RESULTS: Student's t-test revealed a statistical difference (P= 0.001) between the two adhesive systems tested (SMP = 16.8 +/- 2.62 MPa; CSE = 27.3 +/- 2.28 MPa). The micromorphology evaluation of the failure zone revealed a weak area in the demineralized dentin (SMP) and at the top of the hybrid layer (CSE).