Purpose: TO investigate whether in small box-type Class II preparation
s the use of glass ionomer cement, a dentin primer or a different type
of conditioner had an effect on the microleakage compared to a more s
imple total-etch system using a phosphonated bonding agent. Materials
and Methods: In extracted premolars, 84 hox-type Class II composite re
sin restorations with margins in enamel were made following a standard
ized protocol. A transparent matrix system was used and the composite
resin was applied in two layers. The teeth were restored using a phosp
honated total-etch bonding system as a control (Photo Bond). In the ex
perimental groups a glass ionomer lining-cement (Vitrebond), a total-e
tch adhesive including a primer (Scotchbond Multi-Purpose) and a total
-etch adhesive using a self-etching primer (Liner Bond 2) were used. T
he teeth were thermocycled, immersed in a dye solution and sectioned.
The cervical and occlusal dye penetration was assessed. Results: Preve
nting microleakage was not more effective in the experimental groups t
han in the control group (P<0.05). Scotchbond MP groups using maleic a
cid showed statistically significant more microleakage than the contro
l group (Photo Bond) at the cervical side. Liner Bond 2 and Scotchbond
MP groups using maleic acid showed statistically significant more mic
roleakage than the control group at the occlusal side. The use of a li
ning cement did not improve the quality of the restoration. From this
study it was concluded that in this type of restoration, total-etch sy
stems using a primer are not always an improvement.