The application of ESEM in dental materials research

Objectives: To describe the use of environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) to investigate acid etching of enamel and to comment on future applications of ESEM in dental materials research. Methods: The acid etching of axially fractured specimens of human enamel by a 35% (ortho) phosphoric acid etchant was observed using ESEM. Results: Most of the etching action, as evidenced by gaseous bubbling in the etchant film, was observed to occur within 10 s of applying the etchant. High magnification examination of the etched areas revealed distinct etching patterns. Conclusion: ESEM may play an important role in developing the understanding and existing knowledge pertaining to dynamic chemical and physical interactions between components of restorative systems and tooth tissue substrates.