An investigation into the effect of a resin infiltrant on the micromechanical properties of hypomineralised enamel

Abstract

Background: Resin infiltration may alter the mechanical properties of enamel hypomineralised lesions (HL); however, variable surface layer (SL) thickness may affect resin penetration. Aims: To determine the thickness of the SL of HL and to investigate the effect of resin infiltration on the mechanical properties of HL. Design: The thickness of the SL over HL was determined using polarised light microscopy. Etching time using 15% HCl gel to remove the SL of 52 samples was determined. Selected HL and control areas of 21 teeth were infiltrated with Icon® resin infiltrant, and cross-sectional Knoop microhardness (KHN) measurements were recorded before and after resin infiltration. Results: Ninet..