Bond strength of conventional versus modified methods of Class IV restorations in primary incisors: An in vitro study

Abstract

Purpose: Aesthetic restorations of highly decayed anterior primary teeth are challenging due to the small size of the teeth and the large pulp chambers. Therefore, this study attempts to evaluate and compare the tensile and shear bond strengths of conventional versus modified methods (slot technique) of Class IV restorations in primary incisors. Methods: A total of 120 extracted intact maxillary primary central and lateral incisors were divided into two groups. In group A, the conventional class IV cavity was prepared. In group B, thereafter conventional cavity preparation, four and three incisal slots were prepared on the incisal edges of the central and lateral incisors, respectively. All of the teeth were restored using composite restorations and then, the tensile and shear bond strengths were evaluated. Results: A statistically significant increase in the tensile bond strength of the modified method was recorded compared to that of the conventional method restorations (P = 0.001). Although, an increase in the shear bond strengths of the modified method was found, the value did not reach to the statistically significant level (P = 0.158). Conclusions: The preparation of incisal slots could increase the tensile bond strengths of the class IV composite restorations in primary teeth.