Inter-crystallite nanoretention of self-etching adhesives at enamel imaged by transmission electron microscopy.

The purpose of this in vitro study was to analyse the mode of action of self-etching adhesive systems when applied for resin-to-enamel bonding. Transmission electron microscopy was used to investigate the enamel-resin interface after application of non-rinsing self-etching adhesive systems based on phosphoric acid estered methacrylates (Clearfil Liner Bond 2, Clearfil SE Bond, Etch & Prime 3.0 and Resulcin AquaPrime) compared with conventional phosphoric acid etching and bonding (Heliobond).