Abstract
It is known that the remnants of temporary cement decrease the bond strength of luting cement. Although self-adhesive luting cements have recently become available, little is known about the influence of removal methods of temporary cement on the dentin bond strengths of the cements. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of temporary cement removal methods on the shear bond strengths of luting cements. An experimental temporary cement and four luting cements were used. After removal of temporary cement using different removal methods, the luting cements were inserted into a mold and hardened. Shear bond strength tests and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) observations were done. The results were as follows: 1. When the luting cements were applied according to each manufacturer's instructions, the dentin bond strength was found to range from 6.0 to 10.5 MPa. On the other hand, dentin bond strength after the removal of temporary ranged from 2.8 to 9.0 MPa. 2. The method used to remove the temporary cement together with the type of luting cement used were significant factors affecting dentin bond strength. 3. The highest bond strength was obtained when the temporary cement was removed using an ultrasonic tip. The predominant mode of failure was the adhesive regardless of the method used to remove the temporary cement. 4. Different morphological features of the dentin surface were observed under the SEM.