Acid in Dentistry: Types, Uses, and Precautions

What are acids in dentistry and what are they used for?

Acids used in dentistry are chemical substances designed to modify the surface of enamel and dentin, facilitating the adhesion of restorative materials or improving the cleaning of dental surfaces. They are also used in endodontic and periodontal treatments for the removal of organic debris and the decontamination of infected tissues.

Acid etching is one of the most common procedures in adhesive dentistry, allowing for better retention of composite resins, veneers, and other dental restorations.

Types of acids used in dentistry

The most common acids used in dental practice include:

• Orthophosphoric acid (37%): This is the most widely used etching agent in dental bonding, creating micropores in the enamel and dentin to improve the adhesion of restorative materials.
• Citric acid: It is used in periodontal and endodontic treatments to remove the smear layer and facilitate the cleaning of root canals.
• EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid): Used primarily in endodontics to remove the smear layer and improve the penetration of irrigants into the root canal system.
• Maleic acid: It is used in endodontics as a dentin conditioning agent to improve the adhesion of endodontic sealers.
• Polyacrylic acid: It is used in the placement of glass ionomer cements, helping to improve the adhesion between the tooth and the restorative material.

Clinical applications of acids in dentistry

Acids play a fundamental role in various areas of dentistry:

🦷 Adhesive dentistry: Acid etching of enamel and dentin improves the retention of composite resin restorations and ceramic veneers.
🦷 Endodontics: EDTA and other chelating agents facilitate the cleaning of the root canal system by removing the smear layer and enhancing the action of irrigants.
🦷 Periodontics: Some acids are used to decontaminate root surfaces in periodontal regeneration treatments.
🦷 Orthodontics: Acid etching is crucial in the bonding of brackets to the tooth surface, ensuring adequate retention during treatment.

Precautions and potential adverse effects

The use of acids in dentistry must be controlled to avoid undesirable effects such as:

⚠️ Excessive enamel demineralization: Prolonged acid etching can weaken the tooth structure, increasing the risk of sensitivity and decay.
⚠️ Soft tissue irritation: Accidental contact of acids with the oral mucosa can cause burns or ulcerations.
⚠️ Reduced adhesive strength if not rinsed correctly: Inadequate rinsing after etching can compromise the bonding of restorative materials.

To minimize these risks, it is essential to follow appropriate application and rinsing protocols, as well as to use protective barriers for soft tissues.

Conclusion

Acids in dentistry have fundamental applications in adhesion, endodontics, and periodontics. Their controlled use improves the retention of restorations, the cleaning of root canals, and the decontamination of dental surfaces. However, their application must be performed with precision to avoid adverse effects on teeth and soft tissues.

Legal Notice and Disclaimer

This article is part of ONAK's Dictionary of Medical Terms and is for informational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a dentist and should not be considered clinical advice.

ONAK is not responsible for decisions made based on the information contained in this article. It is recommended to consult a dental professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Bibliography

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2. Pashley, D. H. "Dentin permeability and dentin sensitivity." Proc Finn Dent Soc. 1992; 88(Suppl 1): 31-37. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1514423/

3. Zehnder, M. "Root canal irrigants." J Endod. 2006 May; 32(5): 389-398. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16631834/