Prognosis test by visualization of demineralized dentin under restorations to prevent initial wall-lesions initiated by lactic acid.

PURPOSE: To visualize the complete protection of restored dentin in the acidic environment by the complete impregnation of resin into demineralized dentin. METHODS: Class V cavities prepared in extracted human molars composed of enamel, cementum and dentin surfaces were sealed using either 4-META/MMA-TBB resin with conditioning periods of 10, 30, 60 seconds with 10% citric acid and 3% ferric chloride mixed aqueous solution (10-3) or Single-Bond 2 adhesives prior to restoration with light-cured resin-composite. Specimens were either immersed in artificial saliva or 0.1 mol/L buffered lactic acid solutions at 37 degrees C for 14 days. After immersion in 0.5% basic fuchsin dye for 24 hours, the extent of dye penetration at the margin was measured. SEM micrography was used to investigate the quality of hybridized dentin when immersed in HCl followed by NaOCl solutions. RESULTS: After lactic acid exposure, dye penetration into the adjacent demineralized cementum/dentin was found to be significantly lower than the leakage distance under 30 and 60 seconds and Single-Bond 2 specimens. Leakage-free margins were found in 10-second conditioning period specimens for both control and after soaking in buffered lactic solution with the stable hybridized dentin after chemical challenge. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: A leakage-free interfacial layer, provided by complete hybrid layer formation, can block lactic acid penetration. Using this novel prognosis test for visualization of demineralized dentin, clinical restorations are likely to be more reliably predictable in the prevention of initial wall-lesions, post-operative hypersensitivity and/or pulpal infection.