Smear Layer-Deproteinization: Improving the Adhesion of Self-Etch Adhesive Systems to Caries-Affected Dentin

This paper reviews a new method of dentin surface modification, smear layer-deproteinization for self-etch adhesive systems, particularly in relation to improving the adhesion to caries-affected dentin. Remnants of smear debris, which forms hybridized smear layer with self-etch adhesives, can prevent monomer infiltration and interfere with the chemical interaction of adhesive monomers and the underlying dentin. The hybridized smear layer weakens...