Evaluation of long-term bond strength and mechanical properties of a recently launched light-cure resin cement for veneer cementation

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the initial and six-month bonding performance and mechanical properties of a recently launched light-cure resin cement compared to light-cure, dual-cure resin cements, and resin composite used for veneer cementation. Materials and methods: Four luting cements—Panavia Veneer LC (PVL), Variolink Esthetic LC (VEL), Panavia V5 (PV5), and Clearfil AP-X (APX)—were tested for microtensile bond strength (μTBS), Knoop hardness (KHN), degree of conversion (DC), and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) at 24-hour and 6-month. All values were subjected to statistical analysis (α = 0.05). Fracture mode and resin-dentin interfaces were observed via SEM. Results: One-way ANOVA revealed significant differences among the materials for each measured property at 24-hour and 6-month (p < 0.001). The PVL group demonstrated superior bond strength at both time points (24-hour: 58.72 MPa; 6-month: 59.13 MPa), comparable to APX. In contrast, the VEL group showed a significant decrease in μTBS from 24-hour (27.62 MPa) to 6-month (10.65 MPa) (p < 0.001). The dual-cure cement PV5 showed marked improvements in μTBS and mechanical properties beyond 24 h (p < 0.001). KHN and UTS were highest in APX. PVL and APX had higher DC values than VEL and PV5. SEM revealed variations in resin-dentin interfaces across the groups. Conclusions: PVL demonstrated reliable and durable bonding performance, while PV5 showed improvements after 24 h, suggesting the need for extended curing time for optimal performance. Clinical relevance: PVL provides durable bonding and mechanical performance, making it a promising option for veneer cementation in clinical practice.