Abstract
Aim: The purpose of this in vitro investigation was to assess the effect of three remineralizing agents (Voco Remin Pro (R), Uncle Harry's remineralization kit, Sunshine remineralization gel) on the shear bond strengths of two resin-composites (Tetric (R) N-Ceram and Filtek (TM) Z250 Universal Restorative) to enamel of primary molars. Study design: Ninety-six enamel specimens were prepared and randomly distributed to eight groups according to the control, remineralizing agents, and resin composite used. Shear bond strength was measured at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min and the type of bond failure was recorded. Results: The highest shear bond strength (Mean +/- SD) in MPa was for Tetric (R) N-Ceram/control [21.06 +/- 1.68] while the lowest was for Filtek (TM) Z250/Sunshine remineralization gel [11.98 +/- 1.46]. Tukey HSD Post Hoc Tests showed significant difference between Tetric (R) N-Ceram/control and all other groups (p=0.0001) except Filtek (TM) Z250/control. In addition, there was significant difference between Filtek (TM) Z-250/control and all other groups (p=0.0001) except Tetric (R) N-Ceram/control and Tetric (R) N-Ceram/Uncle Harry's remineralization kit. Mode of failure was cohesive (9.38%), adhesive (55.21%), and mixed (35.42%). Conclusions: The three tested remineralizing agents affect shear bond strength of the tested resin-composites to enamel of primary teeth. In general, shear bond strength values were acceptable. Mode of failure was mostly adhesive.