SEM and profilometric evaluation of enamel surface after air rotor stripping--an in vitro study

The aim of the study was to evaluate roughness of the enamel surface after Air Rotor Stripping (ARS). Thirty interproximal surfaces of human premolars were used as the biological material. Research was conducted using a contact profilometer and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Sets of 3D parameters and topographical maps of enamel surface before and after ARS treatment were used to define roughness of the surfaces. SEM images of stripped surfaces were taken with microscopic magnification of 100x and 1000x. The data revealed a general roughness of enamel arising after ARS procedure. Summarized values of chosen parameters increased after ARS procedure compared to the values of untreated enamel. Topographical maps showed areas of both well polished and badly polished enamel. In conclusion, comparison of the mean values of the measured parameters of ARS treated enamel surfaces indicated that roughness of the enamel arises after ARS, but it must be emphasized that on every evaluated surface well polished areas were also present. Moreover, the well polished areas were smoother than those on the untreated enamel surfaces. Contact fluoridation and improved oral hygiene after ARS appear to be necessary because of the presence of areas of increased roughness on evaluated surfaces.