Pulpal response to the application of phosphoric acid to dentin

Experimental cavities were prepared in forty-six clinically intact premolars of young individuals to evaluate the biologic effects of 50 per cent phosphoric acid etchant containing 7 percent zinc oxide by weight. The experimental periods ranged from 30 minutes to 150 days. The remaining dentin thickness varied from 1.8 to 3.5 mm. The teeth treated with the acid showed no more than a moderate pulpal response at the varying time periods. All of the acid-treated teeth demonstrated pulpal imflammation in the absence of clinical pain. Acid etchants should not be used on exposed or unprotected dentin surfaces.