The smear layer consists of calcific debris that is produced when dentin, enamel, and cementum are instrumented. Think about cutting through a piece of wood, the collection of sawdust along the cuts is like the smear layer. In total-etch bonding the smear layer is removed with phosphoric acid, leaving freshly cut, exposed dentinal tubules for wet bonding. During self-etch bonding however, we keep the smear layer and incorporate adhesive into it. When the smear layer mixes with the adhesive, the pH of the adhesive becomes neutralized which allows us to obtain a better bond.
Product Categories
