Effect of smear layer removal agent and/or fluoride on the surface of dentin.

A study was conducted to observe the effectiveness of an EDTA-based agent, Tubulicid Red, and a polyacrylic acid-based agent, Dentin Conditioner, for removal of the smear layer from a prepared dentin surface, with or without a fluoride dentin reinforcing agent, using the dye penetration test and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Bovine mandibular first and second incisors were used. After removal of the enamel, the smear layer on the dentin surface was treated with 38% H3PO4, Tubulicid Red, Dentin Conditioner, 1% NaF, 1% SnF2, Tubulicid Red (including 1% SnF2), Dentin Conditioner (including 1% NaF) and Dentin Conditioner (including 1% SnF2). In the dye penetration test, Dentin Conditioner (including 1% SnF2) was the most effective agent for preventing dye penetration. SEM evaluation of the dentin surface after treatment with the smear layer removal agents and/or fluorides showed that the smear layer was removed by H3PO4 and Dentin Conditioner. However, dentinal plugs remained after treatment with Dentin Conditioner alone. The other agents left some layers on the dentin surface.