Material and methods: The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the bonding capacity of three self-etching primers (Clearfil SE Bond [SE], Clearfil Liner Bond 2V [CLB], Novabond [NOVA]) to enamel. Two adhesive systems with a separate phosphoric acid etching procedure (Gluma Comfort Bond [GLU], Kurasper F [KU]) served as controls. 60 human incisors were used to evaluate shear bond strengths of composite cylinders to enamel.
Results: Significant differences were found between the groups (p < 0.001). The mean value for groups GLU, KU, CLB and SE was 24 MPa. The shear bond strength recorded for the Novabond system was significantly lower (17 MPa).
Conclusion: The results of the present investigation indicate that enamel bonding especially with the self-etching primers CLB and SE is as effective as conventional phosphoric acid etching.