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Effects of acid-etching solutions on human enamel and dentin
Quintessence International (Berlin, Germany : 1985)
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Different etching solutions impact dental enamel differently. Phosphoric and maleic acids cause more significant enamel surface changes than oxalic acid and aluminum salts, affecting prism structure and apatite crystals.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Dental adhesive systems are crucial for tooth restorations.
- Enamel etching is a critical step in achieving reliable bonding.
- Understanding the effects of different etchants on enamel morphology is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of three different dental etching solutions on human molar enamel surface morphology.
- To evaluate the impact of phosphoric acid, oxalic acid/aluminum salts, and maleic acid on enamel prism structure and apatite crystals.
Main Methods:
- Nine noncarious human molars were prepared with occlusal cavities and beveled enamel margins.
- Teeth were etched using three distinct solutions: 37% phosphoric acid, 4.3% oxalic acid/2.6% aluminum salts, and 10% maleic acid.
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze changes in enamel surface morphology.
Main Results:
- All tested etching solutions altered enamel surface morphology.
- Oxalic acid/aluminum salts solution primarily affected prism cores and peripheries, sparing non-beveled surfaces.
- Phosphoric and maleic acids caused more extensive damage, removing prism structures and apatite crystals from both beveled and intact enamel surfaces.
Conclusions:
- The choice of dental etching agent significantly influences enamel surface preparation.
- Phosphoric and maleic acids exhibit more aggressive effects on enamel compared to the oxalic acid/aluminum salts solution.
- These findings have implications for optimizing bonding protocols in restorative dentistry.
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