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Enamel Etching
Examine the rods near the center of the field (A). Note that they appear to be round in cross-section. Acid-etching of surface enamel is commonly done by dentists to condition enamel for better bonding with fissure sealants, restorative materials and orthodontic brackets. Acid-etching causes a dissolution of hydroxyapatite crystals to a depth of about 10 µm providing space for mechanical interlocking. Note that other areas have etched as well (B) but that some have resisted (C).
Legend
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A - etched enamel rods |
C - non-etched enamel rods |
Lecture Notes
