Effect of Novel Etching System on Etch Pattern in Primary Teeth: An In Vitro Study

To evaluate and compare the effects of different etching systems on etch patterns and mineral retention in primary tooth enamel.

Forty extracted, noncarious primary teeth were randomly divided into four groups, each containing 10 teeth. The groups were as follows: group I (Control)-no intervention, group II-etched with 37% phosphoric acid, group III-etched with 37% phosphoric acid combined with tricalcium phosphate (TCP), and group IV-etched with 10% citric acid combined with TCP. The sectioned buccal surfaces were etched for 15 seconds, rinsed for 15 seconds, and air-dried for 30 seconds. The etched surfaces were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to observe etch patterns, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) to assess calcium and phosphorus retention.

Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed distinct etch patterns across the groups. group II (37% phosphoric acid) produced a highly porous surface, indicative of aggressive demineralization, while group III (phosphoric acid + TCP) demonstrated a more controlled etch pattern with higher calcium retention. Group IV (citric acid + TCP) produced the smoothest surface with minimal porosity, reflecting a milder etch effect. EDX analysis showed that group III had the highest calcium retention (41.47 ± 0.56%), whereas group IV had the lowest phosphorus content (9.39 ± 0.13%).

The addition of TCP to phosphoric and citric acid etching systems reduced the aggressive demineralization typically seen with phosphoric acid alone. The phosphoric acid + TCP combination offered an optimal balance between effective etching and mineral preservation, making it a promising etching system for primary teeth. Citric acid + TCP, while gentler, may be suitable for cases where enamel conservation is prioritized.

Sudev SS, Pooja VR. Effect of Novel Etching System on Etch Pattern in Primary Teeth: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(9):1077-1081.