Although the simplified handling and the satisfactory early SBS of VF may prompt its use for bracket bonding, the decrease in retention noted after thermocycling warns that the issue of bond durability should be thoroughly addressed prior to endorsing this clinical application of VF.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of preliminary phosphoric acid etching on the microleakage of a self-adhering flowable composite and a self-etch adhesive used in combination with the proprietary flowable composite. Methods: Standard Class V cavities were prepared on the buccal side of 20 extracted sound human molars. Specimens were randomly divided into five groups: (1) Gel Etchant ⁄ Optibond FL ⁄ Premise Flowable; (2) Vertise Flow; (3) Optibond XTR ⁄ Premise Flowable; (4) Gel Etchant ⁄ Vertise Flow; and (5) Gel Etchant ⁄ Optibond XTR ⁄ Premise Flowable (Kerr). The interfacial sealing ability of the materials was evaluated by scoring the depth of silver nitrate penetration and through scanning electron microscopy observations. Differences in leakage at either the enamel or the dentine interface were evaluated for statistical significance (Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.05). Results: At the enamel interface, no significant differences were found among the materials. On dentine, Gel Etchant ⁄ Vertise Flow had the highest leakage scores and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions:The early sealing ability of the self-adhering flowable composite and the self-etch adhesive in Class V restorations did not significantly benefit from selective enamel etching. Preliminary phosphoric acid etching of dentine negatively affected the quality of the seal when using the adhesive-free flowable composite.

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The radiopacity of the luting agent contributed to the overall post radiovisibility within the root. Even when the cement with lower filler content was used in combination with the least radiodense dowels, the post was detectable within the root.