The marginal microleakage of class II amalgam restorations (Dispersalloy) associated with copal varnish (Copalite) and with two dentin bonding agents (Scotchbond Multi-uso Plus and Multi Bond Alpha) was evaluated in vitro and compared by two methods: scores and linear measurements. Forty-five sound premolars were used, on which two separated class II cavities were prepared on the M and D surfaces. After the restoration, the specimens were thermocycled and stored in a solution of 0.5% basic fuchsin during 24 hours. The analysis allowed to conclude that none of the three restorative systems were able to eliminate the marginal microleakage. Nevertheless, the leakage was significantly smaller on the restorations associated with dentin bonding agents when compared to copal varnish. The linear measurement method was more sensitive than the score criteria.
Dental leakage; Dental amalgam; Dentin bonding agents; Dental cavity lining
