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Biomimetic Dentistry Glossary

Hierarchy of Bondability (HOB)

A key term of biomimetic restorative dentistry, clearly defined. Part of The Hybrid Layer's free reference glossary.

Glossary term Free to read

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).

Clinical photograph demonstrating the Hierarchy of Bondability
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.

Lesson 3 – Immediate Dentin Sealing and Resin Coating
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See the HOB in practice

Three lectures on bonding to different substrates: a microscope-level view of adhesive decisions, the Six Lessons framework, and posterior adhesive protocols on real cases.

Biomimetic Dentistry: An Endodontist’s View Through the Microscope — Dr Henrique Tineo The Six Lessons Approach to Biomimetic Restorative Dentistry — Dr Davey Alleman & Dr David Alleman Adhesive Protocols for Posterior Restorations — Dr Jorge Aravena Diaz

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