Influence of sodium hypochlorite on Er:YAG laser-irradiated dentin and its effect on the quality of adaptation of the composite restoration margins.

Objective: The aims of this in vitro study were to evaluate: (1) the influence of 5% NaOCl application on Er:YAG-irradiated dentin; and (2) its effect on the quality of adaptation of the composite restoration margins.

Background Data: Previous research has shown that Er:YAG dentin irradiation produces a thermally affected tissue layer that results in lower bond strength than that of nonirradiated dentin. The removal of this thermally-affected layer may enhance the quality of dentin bonding.