Abstract
AIM: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a significant role in the degradation of dentin collagen within hybrid layers, affecting the longevity of resin-bonded restorations. The incorporation of MMP inhibitors into dental adhesives has been explored to address this issue. This study aimed to assess the impact of the MMP inhibitor, N, N, N', N'-Tetrakis (2-pyridyl methyl) ethylenediamine (TPEN), on key adhesive properties, including the degree of conversion (DC), microleakage, and micro-tensile bond strength, shedding light on their potential in enhancing bond durability. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Microleakage evaluations were conducted on 24 premolar specimens, while micro-tensile bond strength measurements were performed on the buccal surface of dentin samples. The DC was determined using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy. RESULTS: The findings revealed no significant difference in DC between the adhesive with MMP inhibitors and the control group (P = 0.998). Remarkably, the adhesive containing the MMP inhibitor, TPEN, exhibited significantly higher micro-tensile bond strength than the control group (P = 0.008). However, there was no notable distinction between the two groups concerning microleakage (P = 0.085). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that including TPEN can effectively enhance micro-tensile bond strength in dental adhesives without compromising DC or exacerbating microleakage. This highlights the potential of MMP inhibitors in improving bond durability in restorative dentistry.