The role of HEMA in one-step self-etch adhesives

In spite of its high allergenic potential, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), a low-molecular-weight monomer, is frequently used in adhesives for its positive influence on the bond strength. In addition, the presence of HEMA in one-component one-step adhesives can prevent phase separation. Objectives In search of improved bonding effectiveness, the 24-h bond strength of four experimental one-step self-etch adhesives with different concentrations of HEMA to bur-cut enamel and dentin was determined using a micro-tensile bond strength protocol. Methods The tested experimental adhesives (Exp-0, Exp-10, Exp-19 and Exp-36) only differed in their concentration of HEMA, which was 0, 10, 19 and 36%, respectively. With an increasing concentration of HEMA, the concentration of acetone was decreased. Besides bond strength, the adhesives were also examined by light-microscopy for phase separation. The interface was investigated by SEM and TEM. Results Regarding bond strength, Exp-10 performed best. Even though Exp-36 was the only adhesive formulation that did not exhibit phase separation on a glass plate, it yielded the lowest bond strength. Accordingly, droplets could be observed by SEM and TEM in the adhesive layers of all adhesives, except for Exp-36 on enamel. Conclusion A small amount of HEMA (10%) improved the bond strength of a one-step self-etch adhesive. When added in higher concentrations, this beneficial effect of HEMA on the bond strength is lost due to increased osmosis, which resulted in many droplets; due to reduced polymerization conversion; and sub-optimal physico-mechanical properties of the resultant poly-HEMA containing adhesive interface.