Adhesives play a crucial role in modern dentistry, facilitating the bonding of various materials to tooth structures and enhancing the longevity of dental restorations. Understanding the classification of adhesives is essential for dental professionals to select the appropriate product for specific clinical situations. Below, we delve into the different categories of dental adhesives.

Types of Dental Adhesives

1. Etch-and-Rinse Adhesives

Etch-and-rinse adhesives, also known as total-etch adhesives, involve a multi-step process. The enamel and dentin are first etched with phosphoric acid, creating a micro-retentive surface. This is followed by the application of a primer and adhesive. These adhesives are known for their strong bond strength and are commonly used for bonding composite resins to enamel and dentin.

Key Features:

High bond strength
Effective on both enamel and dentin
Requires multiple steps

2. Self-Etch Adhesives

Self-etch adhesives simplify the bonding process by combining etching and priming in one step. These adhesives are designed to demineralize the tooth surface without the need for a separate etching step. They are particularly useful in situations where enamel is not present, as they bond effectively to dentin.

Key Features:

Single-step application
Less technique-sensitive
Good bond strength to dentin

3. Universal Adhesives

Universal adhesives are versatile products that can be used in both etch-and-rinse and self-etch modes. They are designed to bond to a variety of substrates, including enamel, dentin, metal, and ceramics. This flexibility makes them a popular choice among dental practitioners.

Key Features:

Can be used in multiple bonding techniques
Compatible with various materials
Streamlines inventory for dental practices

4. Glass Ionomer Adhesives

Glass ionomer adhesives are unique in that they chemically bond to tooth structure and release fluoride, which can help in the prevention of caries. These adhesives are often used in pediatric dentistry and for cementing crowns and bridges.

Key Features:

Fluoride release
Chemical bonding to tooth structure
Ideal for specific clinical situations

5. Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer Adhesives

Resin-modified glass ionomer adhesives combine the benefits of glass ionomer and resin-based materials. They offer improved bond strength and aesthetics compared to traditional glass ionomer adhesives while still providing fluoride release.

Key Features:

Enhanced bond strength
Improved aesthetics
Fluoride release properties

6. Temporary Adhesives

Temporary adhesives are used for short-term applications, such as securing temporary crowns or bridges. These adhesives are designed to provide sufficient retention while allowing for easy removal when necessary.

Key Features:

Easy to remove
Provides temporary retention
Ideal for provisional restorations

In summary, the classification of adhesives in dentistry is essential for ensuring optimal bonding and restoration outcomes. By understanding the different types of adhesives available, dental professionals can make informed decisions that enhance patient care and treatment success.

Cements, liners, adhesives and etchant gels

Definition

Сlassification of adhesives in dentistry

Сlassification of cements in dentistry

Сlassification of etchant gels in dentistry

Indications for the use of cements in dentistry

Indications for the use of etchant gels in dentistry