Background and Aims: Today, use of adhesive systems is the most common materials in restorative dental procedures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different air-drying periods on the microtensile bond strength of composite to dentin using adhesive.

Materials and Methods: 15 sound molar teeth were selected. The an occlusal surfaces of teeth were removed with silicon carbide disks (3M/USA) to reach flat surface of dentin. Then according to the air drying of solvent, the teeth were divided to five groups. After 5 sec etching and rinsing for 15 sec , the teeth were air dried for 3 sec . Then Singlebond (3M) was used with different air-drying times (0s, 2s, 5s, 10s, 30s) and cured. Then after insertion and curing of Saremco (microhybrid low shrinkage/Switzerland) composite, the teeth were thermocycled for 500 cycles. Then hour glass slabs with 1 mm² interface was created. Specimens were then subjected to µTBS force until fracture. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Bonferroni tests.

Results: Statistical tests showed that there were significant differences between bond strength of groups (P=0.002). The mean of µTBS for the 2 Sec and 30 Sec evaporating time was the most and the least vawes, respectively.

Conclusion: An optimum air-drying time for solvent evaporation was the lowest time recommended by the manufacturer. Over and under evaporation time decreased µTBS significantly.