The effect of etch-time on the bond strength of a sealant and on the etch-pattern in primary and permanent enamel: an evaluation.

This study was undertaken to establish laboratory evidence of minimum etch-time for primary enamel, for effective retention of occlusal sealants. The effect on enamel of contamination by oral fluid for different exposure times was also evaluated. Here it is shown that a short etch-time of 15 sec is satisfactory for primary enamel, and is also sufficient to produce the required etch-pattern for the strong binding of sealants.