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Bonding agent (dental adhesive)
Also called: bond, adhesive, primer
A thin liquid resin that glues composite fillings to the tooth.
Bonding agents are thin, light-cured resins painted on etched or primed tooth structure so composite fillings and some cements stick. Some are used after a separate etch step; self-etch types combine steps. They are hardened with the curing light.
How to spot it
- Small dark bottles or single-dose units, a mixing well and tiny brush applicators.
What it is used for
- Dispense just before use into a covered well; the bottle stays capped because light starts the set.
Safety and care
- Resin (methacrylates) can cause skin allergies; avoid skin contact and change gloves if contaminated.
- Use blue-light eye protection when curing.
Related
Sources: Boyd LD, Mallonee LF, Wyche CJ. Wilkins' Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist, 14th ed. Jones & Bartlett, 2024, ADA. Oral Health Topics: Dental Curing Lights, CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17)