Acid‐etching of enamel cavity walls

Abstract— The acid‐etched patterns produced on enamel cavity walls and the enamel tooth surface were investigated and the implications of these patterns on cavity preparation for composite resin restorations are discussed. The predominant pattern on enamel cavity walls is of obliquely and longitudinally sectioned prisms. Less commonly, cross‐sectioned prisms, prismless enamel and a rough, pitted appearance are observed. Excessive etching (for example, for four minutes) should be avoided.