The Effect of Laser Etching Alone or Combined With Acid Etching on the Surface Morphology of Enamel: A Scanning Electron Microscopic Study

Laser use and applications in dentistry has increased dramatically in the last years. Laser etching of enamel may provide an alternative for conventional acid etching. The aim of this study was to evaluate, under Scanning Electron Microscope(SEM), enamel surface morphology after laser irradiation with or without the addition of photoabsorber (black ink); with or without acid etching. laser enamel etching produced surface roughness that might be used for the infiltration and subsequent mechanical retention of resin.