Adhesion to mild fluorosed enamel: a comparative study of two etching protocols
Dr. Chems Belkhir: Associate Professor of Endodontics Dr. Asma Arous: Private clinician Dr. Mohammed Semir Belkhir : Professor of Endodontics and chairman Abstract Introduction The objective of this study was to evaluate the adhesion quality of a two-step total-etch adhesive system, to mild fluorosed enamel, by two different etching protocols. Materials and methods Thirteen human teeth (molars and premolars) showing a mild fluorosis (TFI 1-3) according to Thylstrup and Fejerskov index were used. On each tooth two amelo-dentinal Class II box-only cavities were prepared. The distal cavities were etched once for 30 seconds using orthophosphoric acid at 37%. The mesial cavities were etched twice for 30 seconds using orthophosphoric acid at 37%. Following the obturation with resin composite, thermocyling, infiltration with methylene blue and sectioning in the mesio-distal direction, the teeth were observed with ...