Purpose: To evaluate in vitro HEMA diffusion amounts from three dentin-bonding systems in primary molars with various remaining dentin thicknesses.
Methods: Occlusal cavities were prepared with remaining dentin thickness of 0.5, 1 and 2 mm respectively. Chambers that contain 1 ml of distilled water were attached to each tooth. The groups were treated with Total Etch + Syntac Single Component, Syntac Single Component and Clearfil SE Bond. Water eluates were removed after 72 hours for analyses by HPLC.
Results: The cumulative HEMA release amounts were significantly different between all groups (P< 0.05). Decreasing dentin thickness and acid-etching significantly increased pulpward diffusion of HEMA.