The adaptation of composite materials to etched enamel surfaces.

The adaptation of three composite materials and one unfilled bis-GMA resin to etched enamel surfaces was investigated by examining under optical and scanning electron microscopy the adhesive-enamel junction of replicas. The length of the tags and the density of tagging observed on the replicas showed that the three composite materials, Adaptic, Concise and Delphic, adapted to the etched enamel surface equally as well as the unfilled resin Nuva Seal. The results of this study together with available results of mechanical testing and clinical studies allow the conclusion that the successful retention of the composite filling materials to an etched enamel surface is not dependent on the use of an intermediate unfilled resin or bonding agent.