1994 Volume 5 Issue 1 Pages 59-65
The etching pattern for the enamel surface of human teeth was compared using 35% phosphoric acid and the use of the Nd: YAG laser with potency varying from 0.75w to 1.00w, and 15pps during 90 seconds. The formation of tags was also observed in two groups, one treated with 35% phosphoric acid and the other with Nd: YAG laser, and both received DELTON (J&J) pit and fissure sealant. The samples were examinated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which showed that the patterns obtained by the phosphoric acid etching were uniform presenting a great quantity of microporosities thus being considered superior to the pattern obtained by the Nd: YAG laser etching, either by 1.00w or 0.75w. The formation of tags showed better results in the group treated by the phosphoric scid than in that treated with Nd: YAG laser.
