The Potential of 100% Green Okra Pod Extract (Abelmoschus esculentus) in Forming Enamel Microporosity Depth

The success of composite resin restorations depends on effective enamel bonding achieved through the formation of resin tags within etching-induced enamel microporosities. Thirty-seven percent phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) is considered the gold standard etching agent; however, its acidic nature may adversely affect oral epithelial cells. Therefore, a more biocompatible alternative is needed. Green okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) contains organic acids and antioxidant compounds that may provide etching potential. This study evaluated the ability of 100% green okra extract to form enamel microporosity and compared its microporosity depth with that produced by 37% H₃PO₄. A laboratory experimental study with a post-test only control group design was conducted using 10 extracted maxillary first premolars. The samples were randomly divided into two groups (n = 5). Group I was treated with 37% H₃PO₄, while Group II received 100% green okra extract. Both materials were applied for 20 seconds. Enamel microporosity depth was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. Data were analyzed using the Shapiro–Wilk test, Levene’s test, and Independent t-test. The mean enamel microporosity depth was 19.73 μm in the 37% H₃PO₄ group and 25.31 μm in the 100% green okra extract group. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between the groups (p = 0.176). One hundred percent green okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) extract demonstrated a comparable ability to form enamel microporosity to that of 37% H₃PO₄, indicating its potential as a natural alternative etching agent.