INBDE Bootcamp Fields Of Dentistry Practice Test

Etching in resin bonding also serves to remove the smear layer and expose dentin for micromechanical bonding.

Increases enamel roughness Creates chemical bonds to collagen Seals dentin tubules Removes smear layer and exposes dentin for micromechanical bonding

Correct Answer:

Removes smear layer and exposes dentin for micromechanical bonding

Explanation:

Etching with phosphoric acid on dentin removes the smear layer that forms during tooth preparation and demineralizes the surface, exposing the collagen network and opening dentinal tubules. This creates micro-porosities that resin can infiltrate, forming a resin-rich hybrid layer and resin tags that provide micromechanical interlocking with dentin. Because the goal of bonding to dentin is to achieve strong mechanical adhesion rather than a chemical bond to collagen, removing the smear layer and exposing the dentin surface is essential for effective resin bonding. While the same etching action on enamel increases surface roughness for bonding, the dentin effect described here centers on creating an unfouled, permeable surface that allows resin infiltration and interlocking.

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