Effect of a Papain-based Chemomechanical Agent on Structure of Dentin and Bond Strength: An in vitro Study

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the microtensile bond strength of teeth restored with packable composite after removing caries with three che-momechanical caries removal agents (Carisolv, Papacarie and Carie-care) and also to analyze its effect on chemical composition of dentin using energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. Design: A total of 40 carious molars with 1 to 1.5 mm of remaining dentin were selected and divided into four groups of 20 each. Group I (control)-bur, group II-Carisolv, group III-Papacarie, group IV-Carie-care. A total of 15 samples from each group were restored with composite; 1 mm thick sections were made and were debonded under tensile load. Remaining five samples from each group were subjected to EDX for elemental analysis of dentin surface. Results: No statistically significant difference in the bond strength values and Ca/P ratio was observed between control group and three chemomechanical agents tested in the study. Conclusion: None of the chemomechanical agents tested in the study adversely affected the bond strength of composite resin to caries-affected dentin. Therefore, newer papain-based chemomechanical agent Carie-care can be considered as an equally effective economical alternative to commonly used agents Carisolv and Papacarie.