Three-dimensional aspects of etched enamel in non-erupted deciduous teeth

Acid etching with phosphoric acid on the prismless layer of human dental enamel may produce different patterns of dissolution. Consequently, the presence of several patterns of enamel acid conditioning may indicate better or worse formation of resin tags. In this study, the heterogeneous patterns of 35% phosphoric acid conditioning of human non-erupted deciduous teeth were reported. SEM images demonstrated type I, type II and type III aspects reported by Silverstone et al. (Caries Research 1975; 9:373-387), in spite of the etching time used and the surface area (buccal incisal, middle or cervical thirds). These characteristic features on the enamel surface may indicate the convenient use of this technique in deciduous teeth.