Summary – What is the Hierarchy of Bondability (HOB)?

The Hierarchy of Bondability (HOB) refers to the fact that different tooth substrates form different bond strengths, and these bonds take different lengths of time to develop. This can be as a result of the different substrates (e.g. enamel and dentin); substrate conditions (e.g. inner and outer carious dentin); or the general substrate location. As these factors vary, the time taken to establish the hybrid layer varies, and the strength of the resulting bond also varies. This relates to the concept of Decoupling With Time (DWT).

Fig 1. Clinical photograph demonstrating the Hierarchy of Bondability. Note that Caries Detector Dye has been used to determine Caries Removal Endpoints.
Photo Credit: Dr Fran Brelsford

Learn More…

To find out about the specific bond strengths in more detail, and to learn more about the Hierarchy of Bondability (HOB) in relation to Immediate Dentin Sealing (IDS), Resin Coating (RC) and Decoupling With Time (DWT), see Lesson 3 of the Six Lessons Approach to Biomimetic Dentistry below.