This article provides biological and technological information to support routine use of new cohesive bonding systems with definitive restorations. With these systems, clinicians may expect many advantages over the more traditional water soluble base and liner systems. Hybridization of vital dentin will prevent postoperative hypersensitivity under restorations and completely seal the tooth-restoration interface to prevent bacterial infection of the underlying substrate, ultimately reducing recurrent caries underneath the hybridized restoration.