Dentine surface morphology according to caries removal method and subsequent acid etching.

Aim To evaluate dentine morphology after caries removal by different mechanical and chemo-mechanical methods and subsequent orthophosphoric acid etching in permanent teeth, using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Methods Eight extracted natural teeth with caries (ICDAS score 5-6) were divided into four groups (ni=2) according to the dentine removal method. Group 1 (tungsten carbide bur, TC); Group 2 (polymer bur, PB); Group 3 (excavator, EX); Group 4 (Brix 3000®, BR). After caries removal, each tooth was sectioned mesiodistally. One half was kept in buffered saline solution while the other half was exposed to 37% orthophosphoric acid (OA) for 5 seconds. The samples were analysed under SEM conditions at different magnifications. Results The groups in which mechanical systems were used showed a compact smear layer that was partially eliminated after etching, The BR group showed a smear layer-free dentineal surface and an exposed collagen network even before acid etching. Conclusions Brix 3000® was an effective method for removing infected dentine. It can therefore be considered as an alternative to conventional caries removal methods.