Solvent-induced Expansion & Shrinkage of Demineralized Dentin Matrix

Before resin composites can serve as durable substitutes for amalgam restorations, the adhesive system used to retain them and add to seal dentin must be improved. The recent observations, using the newly developed LVDT (linear variable differential transformer) probe, that all commercial bonding systems cause a collapse of the demineralized dentin matrix, simulated a re-evaluation of the effects of these formulations on the matrix. The experiment was begun by examining solvents such as water-HEMA mixtures. These produced the same shrinkages as did the complete formulations.(omitted)