Effect of Pro-Argin Technology on Bond Strength After Artificial Aging

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a recently introduced desensitizing paste based on Pro-Argin technology (elmex Sensitive Professional Desensitizing Paste, GABA, Germany) on microtensile bond strength of a total etch adhesive system (Syntac, Vivadent, Liechtenstein) after artificial aging using water storage and application of a provisional cement (Temp Bond, Kerr, Germany). Methods: 60 freshly extracted third molars were included. All teeth were specially prepared allowing the simulation of dentin perfusion and standardized conditions. The specimens were randomly assigned to four experimental groups of fifteen each: group 1: control without desensitizer; group 2: desensitizing paste application; group 3: desensitizing paste, water storage; group 4: desensitizing paste, application of Temp Bond, water storage. Group 3 and 4 were stored in water for one week. In group 3 Temp Bond was additionally applied after desensitizer application. Microtensile bond strength was measured using a Zwick testing machine. Results: For the test series following tensile bond strengths were evaluated (mean values and standard deviations in MPa): Group 1: 24.66 (±7.96), group 2: 15.54 (±2.99), group 3: 13.61 (± 2.25), group 4: 16.16 (± 1.55). Statistical analysis showed a significant influence of the different aging procedures on microtensile bond strength (p 0.001, ANOVA). After application of the desensitizing paste a significant reduction of bond strength could be observed compared with the untreated control (p 0.05, Tukey test). Pairwise comparison showed no further significant reduction of bond strength in specimen after water storage and application of the provisional cement (p> 0.05, Tukey test). Conclusions: Within the limitations of an in vitro investigation it can be concluded that application of the desensitizing paste based on Pro-Argin technology might affect microtensile bond strength of the used total etch adhesive system. Keywords: dentin hypersensitivity, dentin, bond strength, desensitizer, aging