Bond Strength of Sealant After Human Saliva and Blood Contamination

Objectives: The purpose of this “in vitro” study was to evaluate the shear bond strength of a sealant to enamel in human saliva and blood contamination condition. Methods: Thirty mesial, distal and lingual surfaces of molars were grounded with shofu rock and water sandpapers to obtain a flat surface. The sealant used was Fluroshield (Dentsply). After 37% phosphoric acid gel application, the specimens were washed, dried and randomly divided into 3 Groups (n=10). GI- (control group) sealant application; GII- with contamination (0,01 ml of human saliva + blood), dried for 20 seconds, sealant application; GIII- - with contamination (0,01 ml of human saliva + blood), washed and dried for 20 seconds, sealant application. The specimens were stored in distilled water at 37ºC for 24 hours and they were debonded using a Universal Testing Machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Failure mode was assessed using a X40 magnification stereomicroscope. Data were submitted to statistical analysis (ANOVA) and Kruskall-Wallis. Results: The means (MPa) were: 22,38 (±6,91); 19,85 (±7,21) e 15,31 (±2,64) respectively. It was observed statistically significant difference (p<0.05) between groups I and III. Conclusions: It may be concluded that after contamination (0,01 ml of human saliva + blood), the conditioned surface should be washed and dried before the sealant use.