OBJECTIVE To determine whether the use of Gluma as a desensitizing agent on tooth preparations has any effect upon the bond strength of a resin composite restoration cemented to dentin. METHODS Forty extracted human molars which were caries and restoration-free were occlusally reduced to remove enamel. Twenty of the teeth received a Gluma desensitization treatment and 20 were untreated (controls). Following a 7-day storage period, simulated resin composite inlays were bonded to all of the dentin specimens, using either All-Bond 2 with All-Bond Crown & Bridge Cement or OptiBond with Porcelite Dual Cure. Twenty-four hours later, the shear bond strength of the specimens was determined. RESULTS Statistical analysis (paired t-tests) indicated no significant difference in bond strength for Gluma-treated specimens when compared to controls, for either bonding material.