Method of etching and priming a tooth

Abstract

A method for etching and treating a tooth surface prior to restoration, comprising a solution comprising of an -SO3 terminated compound resin, such as an -SO3H compound resin, and an aldehyde desensitizing compound. In practice, the composition is applied to the tooth surface and not subsequently washed prior to application of an adhesive or other restorative material.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to methods for preparing the surface of a tooth prior to repair or restoration. In particular, the present invention relates to compositions and methods for simultaneously etching and priming the surface of a tooth prior to the application of dental adhesives and / or filling materials.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART[0002] Methods and compositions for improving the adhesion of resins to hard tissue, i.e., dentin or enamel, is an ongoing goal in the dental arts. Improved adhesion leads to longer lasting restorations and reduced tooth sensitivity. Numerous methods for preparing teeth for the application of a dental restorative material (such as a sealant, filling material, cementation of indirect dental restorations or the like) have accordingly been developed, including acid etch and priming steps. Unfortunately, such steps have increased operating time and complexity.[0003] Acid etchants are commonly thought to remove smear layers and deminera...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention relates to methods and compositions for improving the adhesion of resins to hard tissue, such as dentin or enamel, in dentistry. The invention provides a self-etching primer composition that can be applied in a fewer number of steps and without the need for a separate washing step. The composition includes an olefinically unsaturated monomer having terminal --SO.sub.3 groups, which can simultaneously etch and prime the tooth surface for application of a dental restorative material. The composition can also include a desensitizing agent to decrease dental sensitivity. The invention offers an improved adhesive bonding process for dental restorations."

Problems solved by technology

Improved adhesion leads to longer lasting restorations and reduced tooth sensitivity.

Unfortunately, such steps have increased operating time and complexity.

However, the use of an etchant has a disadvantage, in that it must be washed off after application, requiring the time-consuming procedure of application, washing and drying.

A further disadvantage of etchants is the perception that use of strong etchants can increase dental sensitivity in some patients.

The multi-step bonding protocols typical of current commercial adhesive systems generally tend to be a source of material waste and unreasonable technique sensitivity.

Furthermore, although conventional aggressive etchants are effective in cleaning the surface of dentin for improved wetting by and diffusion of the components of the adhesive system, they can also weaken the underlying sound dentin by excessive demineralization and disruption of collagen fibrils.

Also, the depth of demineralized, altered dentin resulting from the use of aggressive etchants may exceed the depth to which an adhesive resin can penetrate the dentin, resulting in a weakened, partially reinforced hybrid dentin zone, and thereby become vulnerable to failure.

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