Shear bond strength of different bonding agents to dental metal alloys

Introduction: The bonding of indirect restorations is one of the most important steps, in order to achieve adequate retention and sealing of the interface between the restorative material and the tooth. Objective: To evaluate the shear bond strength of different bonding agents to two metal alloys used in dentistry. Methods: In vitro experimental study. One hundred specimens of base metal alloys, 50 nickel-chromium and 50 nickel-chromium-titanium were prepared and randomly divided into 5 groups. This division was made according to the bonding agent used: two-step self-etching system (Clearfil SE Bond; CSB), universal adhesive system (Single Bond Universal; SBU), self-adhesive resin cement (Maxcem Elite; ME), glass ionomer (IV) and zinc phosphate (ZnPO). After the application of each bonding agent, the treated specimens were stored in distilled water for 24 hr at 37 ºC and subjected to a shear bond strength test. Results: Shear bond strength was significantly influenced by the type of bonding agent (p = 0.002) and the type of alloy used (p < 0.001). Shear bond strength was highest when using the Clearfil SE Bond system, followed by Single Bond Universal; the differences between Maxcem Elite and Zinc Phosphate were not significant. Finally, IV did not show adhesion to any of the metal alloys used. Conclusions: The use of Clearfil SE Bond increased the bond strength of resinous cements to metallic alloys.