title: The effect of etch duration on the microstructure of molar enamel: an in vitro study.
abstract: This in vitro study evaluated the influence of varying etch time on the microstructure of molar buccal enamel. The buccal surfaces of four groups of extracted first molar teeth were etched for 15, 30, 45, and 60 seconds. The etch patterns obtained were photographed with a scanning electron microscope and rated with a 3-grade scale. The 15-second etch time failed to produce any optimal etch patterns. The best etch patterns were found in molars etched for 60 seconds.
authors.affiliation: Division of Restorative Dentistry and Orthodontics, School of Clinical Dentistry, Queen's University of Belfast, Northern Ireland.
authors.forename: C D
authors.initials: CD
authors.lastname: Johnston
authors.forename: D L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Hussey
authors.forename: D J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Burden
mesh_terms: D000134:Acid Etching, Dental / Q000379:methods*; D003743:Dental Enamel / Q000187:drug effects / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D003747:Dental Enamel Solubility / Q000187:drug effects; D005782:Gels; D006801:Humans; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D008963:Molar / Q000187:drug effects / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D010756:Phosphoric Acids / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology; D010781:Photography; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D005782:Gels; D010756:Phosphoric Acids