“…Different authors have reported that there are approximately 25 types of metalloproteinases, being the most abundant in the organism, the metalloproteinases of type 1, 3, 8 and 9. 8 , 9 , 10 On contrary, there are endogenous 11 or specific tissue inhibitors 12 , 13 called TIMPS's (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases) that inhibit the mechanism of action of metalloproteinases, 14 , 15 as well as nonspecific inhibitors 16 or artificial inhibitors 17 , 18 such as 2% chlorhexidine digluconate solution, EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) and proanthocyanidin 12 , 17 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 that some researchers recommend to inhibit dentin metalloproteinases and prevent collagen degradation, allowing a more stable hybrid layer that increases the chances of successful adhesion and thus a restoration with increased tensile strength. 20 , 21 These studies applied in the field of restorative dentistry demonstrate the importance for dentistry students to learn, during their professional training, the mechanism of action of metalloproteinases and their nonspecific inhibitors as conditioning agents that allow greater conservation of collagen to achieve a good marginal sealing and optimal adhesion.…”