Microleakage Evaluation using Acetate Peel Technique

To evaluate and measure the interfacial space or the restoration cavity integrity for probable microleakage using acetate film; acetate peel technique under different magnifications. Study design: Premolar tooth was obtained and standardized class V restoration with Z-350 done both buccally and lingually. The tooth was hemisectioned buccolingually and embedded in epoxy resin, polished, acid etched, washed and dried. The sectioned sample was flooded with acetone and a pre-cut acetate film placed over it. As the acetone evaporated, the film took the shape of the micro relief produced by etching and dried in 10-15mins. It was pulled off the tooth surface and mounted between two glass slides for examination under research microscope with different magnifications. Results: This enabled us to measure the interfacial space that might lead to leakage of restoration and also could detect the intricate details of tooth. Conclusion: The acetate peel technique is an efficient way to study the interfacial space/ restoration-cavity marginal integrity at a higher magnification and was a fast and reliable tool for assessing the microleakage of a restorative material.

Acetate peel technique, Interfacial space, Microleakage, Acetate film

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