The main objective of this study was to examine the surface changes of bovine teeth hard tissues (dentin and enamel) after surface preparation with the use of commercial 3-component etch-and-rinse bonding system. Surface composition changes, morphology, BET specific surface area and surface energy parameters were examined after etching, application of primer and adhesive. Characteristic of tissues composition was carried out with the use of Raman spectroscopy. Morphological changes were followed by scanning electron microscopy, while specific surface area values were measured by the means of gas porosimetry. For the first time surface energy of prepared teeth hard tissues was studied with the use of inverse gas chromatography. A detailed characteristic of surface parameters of bovine teeth hard tissues was made. Obtained results show that each step of dentin and enamel preparation is reflected in all studied parameters. Application of etchant, primer and adhesive causes an increase of surface activity of all examined tissues, measured as surface energy parameters. Surface parameters changes caused by the application of bonding system are crucial from dentin/enamel - restorative material adhesion point of view.
Keywords: Bonding system; Dentin; Enamel; Inverse gas chromatography; Surface activity; Surface energy.
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