Which of the following is NOT a potential benefit of using amalgam bonding?

The correct choice highlights that amalgam bonding is associated with a tendency to require less tooth structure removal, not more. This is significant because one of the advantages of using dental materials that bond to tooth structure is that they can minimize the amount of healthy tooth enamel and dentin that must be removed during cavity preparation. By promoting bonding to the remaining tooth structure, dentists can offer more conservative treatment options.

The other options presented are indeed recognized benefits of amalgam bonding. Increased fracture resistance of restored teeth is a major advantage because bonded restorations can withstand the stresses of occlusion more effectively, reducing the likelihood of fracture under normal chewing forces. Improved sealing of margins compared to traditional varnishes enhances the longevity of the restoration, as better sealing helps to prevent microleakage, which can lead to secondary caries. Finally, the support from well-established clinical and laboratory studies underscores the reliability and effectiveness of amalgam bonding techniques, encouraging their use in everyday practice.

Therefore, the emphasis on the potential drawbacks of tooth structure removal in the context of amalgam bonding makes it the correct answer to the question, as the use of bonding techniques typically aims to preserve tooth integrity while enhancing overall outcomes.