Three-Second Short Dentin Etching: Systematic Review of In Vitro Evidence in Adhesive Dentistry

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Adhesion

Background:

• Selective dentin etching (SDE) is a novel strategy for improving adhesive bond strength.
• SDE aims to enhance bonding while preserving dentin integrity.
• This review evaluates the efficacy of a 3-second SDE protocol.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the impact of a 3-second selective dentin etching (SDE) protocol on bond strength and interface durability.
• To compare SDE with conventional etch-and-rinse and self-etch adhesive strategies.
• To assess the influence of etching variations on SDE outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search following PRISMA 2020 guidelines across major databases.
• Inclusion of in vitro studies using human or bovine dentin with a 3-second SDE protocol.
• Comparison of bond strength outcomes against conventional etching protocols.

Main Results:

• Nine in vitro studies confirmed that 3-second SDE enhances immediate bond strength and durability of universal adhesives.
• SDE preserves hydroxyapatite and prevents over-demineralization, contributing to better hybrid layer formation.
• Excessive etching times (≥15s) result in poorly infiltrated hybrid layers susceptible to degradation.

Conclusions:

• A 3-second SDE protocol effectively enhances bonding performance and potentially increases the longevity of adhesive dental restorations.
• Clinicians must consider adhesive type, etchant viscosity, and substrate variability for optimal SDE application.
• Further research is needed to standardize clinical protocols and evaluate long-term in vivo outcomes.