A pilot investigation of enamel reduction procedures.
OBJECTIVE
To test and describe the use of various combinations of mechanical and chemical techniques for enamel reduction to obtain a smooth surface.


METHODS
Bovine teeth (2 surfaces on each of 32 teeth) were used. The teeth were mounted in blocks of dental plaster, which were then mounted in a vise. The mesiodistal enamel contact areas were reduced by various combinations of mechanical and chemical aids. The mesiodistal width of each tooth was measured with a digital caliper after initial reduction of the enamel surface and again after polishing. The teeth were subsequently prepared and mounted for scanning electron microscopy.


RESULTS
All combinations yielded statistically significant enamel reduction (p < 0.05). The use of acid stripping in conjunction with mechanical procedures produced especially smooth enamel surfaces.


CONCLUSIONS
Steps must be taken to ensure that a smooth enamel surface remains after enamel reduction and polishing. It is recommended that conventional enamel etchants be added to the polishing procedure. Enamel reduction can increase available space, but the quantity of enamel that can be removed without adverse consequences should be carefully evaluated.
Rossouw
P Emile
PE
Baylor College of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas 75246, USA. ERossouw@tambcd.edu
Tortorella
Andrew
A
D000134:Acid Etching, Dental; D000818:Animals; D002417:Cattle; D003743:Dental Enamel / Q000187:drug effects / Q000601:surgery*; D003755:Dental High-Speed Technique; D003762:Dental Instruments; D018130:Diamond; D006851:Hydrochloric Acid / Q000494:pharmacology; D008298:Maleates / Q000494:pharmacology; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D009811:Odontometry; D010756:Phosphoric Acids / Q000494:pharmacology; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013499:Surface Properties / Q000187:drug effects; D017973:Tungsten Compounds
D008298:Maleates; D010756:Phosphoric Acids; D017973:Tungsten Compounds; C002802:tungsten carbide; D018130:Diamond; C030272:maleic acid; C030242:phosphoric acid; D006851:Hydrochloric Acid