When it comes to bonding techniques, achieving the best possible results requires the right materials. BISCO offers two etchants—Select HV Etch w/BAC and Uni-Etch w/BAC—designed to provide clinicians with the ideal viscosity for both total-etch and selective-etch bonding procedures.
Tailored Viscosities for Different Techniques
Whether you prefer the total-etch or selective-etch technique, BISCO has an etchant you can trust. Dr. Todd Snyder, a respected clinician, relies on BISCO’s etchants to deliver consistent, high-quality bonds.
BISCO introduced Uni-Etch, a 32% phosphoric acid semi-gel etchant, when the total-etch technique was widely used. This formula is designed to flow easily over large areas, ensuring uniform coverage. However, as the selective-etch technique grew in popularity, the need for a more precise application led to the development of Select HV Etch. This 35% phosphoric acid etchant is more viscous, allowing for controlled placement on enamel while preventing accidental contact with dentin.
“It had to be thicker,” explained Dr. Rolando Nuñez, BISCO’s Manager of Clinical Marketing. “Its viscosity helps the placement of etchant on the enamel without the added risk of running into the dentin.”
Despite their differences in viscosity, both Uni-Etch and Select HV Etch are versatile enough to be used with either bonding technique. According to Dr. Nuñez, offering etchants with different viscosities provides clinicians with greater control and enhances the user experience, ultimately improving bonding outcomes.
“You can rest assured that the etchant will accomplish what you need to obtain the best bond possible,” he said.
Added Benefits: BAC for a Cleaner Surface
Beyond their precise application, both etchants contain benzalkonium chloride (BAC), an agent that helps cleanse the tooth. BAC is also known to inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are enzymes in dentin that become activated by acid and can degrade the hybrid layer over time. Studies have shown that BAC helps inhibit MMP activity, contributing to a stronger, longer-lasting bond.1
Key to Bonding Success
Phosphoric acid plays a critical role in the bonding process, regardless of the technique used. The total-etch technique applies phosphoric acid to both enamel and dentin, while the selective-etch technique focuses application on enamel only. With BISCO’s etchants, clinicians have the flexibility to choose the right product for their preferred method.
Dr. Snyder highlights another advantage of BISCO’s etchants: "...their ability to support optimal bonding. Phosphoric acid alone doesn’t eliminate bacteria, so benzalkonium chloride is added to help cleanse the tooth for the best possible bond. That’s a huge advantage.”
Attention to Detail Makes the Difference
When it comes to bonding, success is in the details. Using high-quality materials like BISCO’s Select HV Etch and Uni-Etch can make a meaningful impact on clinical outcomes. By providing the right viscosity for different techniques and incorporating BAC for added benefits, BISCO’s etchants help clinicians achieve optimal bonds with confidence.
“Etching with phosphoric acid is half of the bonding procedure,” Dr. Nuñez said. “Using the best product available can make a difference.”
References:
1. Tezvergil-Mutluay A et al. The anti-MMP activity of benzalkonium chloride. J Dent. 2011 Jan;39(1):57-64
NOTE: Inclusion of BAC has not been shown to correlate with a reduction in secondary decay in patients. In-vivo clinical studies to evaluate the effects of BAC on oral bacteria or caries have not been performed.