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Journal of Polymer & Composites Review Article Special issue

Physicochemical Transitions and Polymerization Dynamics in Multi-Generational Dentin Adhesives: A Critical Review of the Resin-Dentin Composite Interface

  1. Vanita D. Revankar Department of Conservative dentistry & Endodontics, Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University) Salem
  2. Harikaran Jeyakkodi Department of Conservative dentistry & Endodontics, Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University) Salem
  3. Adhavan Balaji K.L.M. Department of Conservative dentistry & Endodontics, Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University), Salem
  4. Nandhini K. Department of Conservative dentistry & Endodontics, Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University), Salem
  5. Manoharan Subhashini Department of Conservative dentistry & Endodontics, Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University) Salem
  6. Thenmozhi R. Department of Conservative dentistry & Endodontics, Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University), Salem

Abstract

Adhesive dentistry has undergone a transformative refinement over the past three decades, transitioning from technique-sensitive, multi-step etch-and-rinse protocols to streamlined universal formulations. This narrative review critically synthesizes evidence from thirty peer-reviewed investigations to evaluate the evolution of dentin bonding agents from the fourth through the eighth generations. The analysis places particular emphasis on the physicochemical dynamics of the resin-dentin interface, including interfacial bond strength metrics, marginal integrity, and microleakage behavior. Furthermore, it examines the profound influence of operative variables—such as etching strategies and restorative material compatibility—on the longevity of the hybrid layer. Data from in vitro models indicate that eighth-generation and universal adhesives consistently demonstrate enhanced shear bond strength values, frequently ranging between 26 and 40 MPa, which often surpasses the performance of earlier simplified systems. However, the review identifies significant methodological heterogeneity within the literature and highlights that technique-related parameters, specifically selective phosphoric acid enamel conditioning, often exert an influence equal to or greater than the generational classification of the adhesive itself. Despite these favorable laboratory outcomes, long-term randomized clinical evidence remains sparse, revealing a persistent translational gap between bench-top evaluation and real-world clinical durability. Ultimately, this review provides a mechanistic, evidence-based framework for adhesive selection while identifying critical priorities for the development of future bioactive and hydrolytically stable formulations capable of resisting enzymatic degradation at the interface.

Keywords

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