Figure 1. TEM micrographs depicting the changes in silver tracer penetration within the hybrid layers of an experimental total-etch filled adhesive after aging in artificial saliva. (A) An overall view of the resin-dentin interface in a 24-hour specimen. High-magnification views of the hybrid layers are shown after aging for: (B) 24 hrs, (C) 1 mo, (D) 3 mos, (E) 6 mos, and (F) 12 mos. Reticular silver deposits (pointers) that were initially identified within the bulk of hybrid layers were gradually reduced, and were replaced by the accumulation of similar deposits along the hybrid layer-adhesive interface. Water trees (open arrowheads) that began to form along this interface at 6 mos were clearly evident after 12 mos. There was also an increase in the size and density of the isolated silver grains (arrows) during the entire storage period. C, resin composite; FA, filled adhesive; T, dentinal tubule; U, undemineralized dentin.

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