Presence of microbrush remnants on the adhesion surface: A microscopical analysis

Objectives: the aim of this ex vivo report was to evaluate, on a microscopical analysis, the presence of microbrush remnants on in the adhesive surface in extracted teeth.Methods: Twenty extracted teeth were divided into four groups. Half of the teeth were prepared as Class I cavities, whereas the other half as Class II cavities, according to Black classification. The teeth were conditioned with primer and bonding, both applied with microbrushes. Each of these groups was divided into halves, and the two sub-groups received a polymerization process or not, respectively. The teeth were then analyzed by scanning electron microscopy working in environmental mode.Results: All of the analyzed surfaces (100%) showed the presence of residual bristles on the adhesion surface.Conclusions: Microscopical analysis showed the presence of residual bristles in the 100% of the surfaces treated with Black Classes I and II cavities. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the influence of this factor on the adhesion strength and capacity. Clinical Significance: Clinician should be aware of the realistic possibility of the presence of bristles belonging to disposable applicators in the adhesive interface of Black's class I and II cavities. The impact of these remnants has still to be ascertained.