Effects of various agents in cleaning cut dentine

The effectiveness of various agents in cleaning cut dentine surfaces was investigated. Attempts to remove the smeared layer of dentine after the preparation of a cavity showed that a polyacrylic acid (Durelon liquid) gave the best result, flour of pumice or a prophylaxis paste (Prevodontic) used with a rubber cup were effective, but 3% hydrogen peroxide and a cavity cleaner (Cavilax) were not. The only effective agents following the use of a zinc oxide eugenol temporary cement were the flour of pumice and prophy paste.