The effect of microabrasion on human enamel has been well documented;
however, no information is available on its effect on dentin or restor
ative materials. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect
of the microabrasion technique on the surface roughness of restorative
materials and enamel and dentin surfaces. Flat disks of amalgam, comp
osite resin, porcelain, and glass ionomer were evaluated. Labial ename
l of three maxillary incisors and three molars that were flattened buc
cally to expose dentin were also tested. The Prema microabrasion compo
und was applied to each sample with a 10:1 gear-reduction, slow-speed
handpiece for 5 seconds, then rinsed for 10 seconds. Roughness was det
ermined with a profilometer. This procedure was repeated 20 times for
each sample. A polyvinylsiloxane impression of the surface was taken a
fter 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 applications and examined under a scanning e
lectron microscope. Enamel surface roughness did not improve as previo
usly reported, suggesting that changes in optical characteristics may
not be as important as removal of enamel in obtaining esthetic results
. Dentin and glass ionomer exhibited an increase in roughness, such th
at their presence contraindicates the technique. Amalgam was essential
ly polished. Porcelain was most resistant to the effects of microabras
ion. Judicious use of the technique, especially when restorative mater
ials are present, is advised.