Which procedure may remove the last enamel overlying dentin in pits & fissures, leaving the tooth more susceptible?

Which procedure may remove the last enamel overlying dentin in pits & fissures, leaving the tooth more susceptible?

• A. Enameloplasty
• B. Etching
• C. Polishing
• D. Fluoride varnish

Answer: (A)

Pits and fissures are protected by a thin outer layer of enamel that sits over the dentin. If a procedure removes that last enamel layer, dentin becomes exposed, and dentin is more susceptible to decay and sensitivity due to its tubular structure and lower mineral content compared with enamel. Enameloplasty involves reshaping or removing enamel to widen or smooth fissures, and if done too aggressively, it can reach the dentin and leave the tooth more vulnerable. In contrast, etching roughens enamel surfaces to improve bonding without removing a significant thickness of enamel, polishing is a superficial smoothing process, and fluoride varnish adds a protective seal and remineralization benefit rather than exposing dentin.

Pits and fissures are protected by a thin outer layer of enamel that sits over the dentin. If a procedure removes that last enamel layer, dentin becomes exposed, and dentin is more susceptible to decay and sensitivity due to its tubular structure and lower mineral content compared with enamel. Enameloplasty involves reshaping or removing enamel to widen or smooth fissures, and if done too aggressively, it can reach the dentin and leave the tooth more vulnerable.

In contrast, etching roughens enamel surfaces to improve bonding without removing a significant thickness of enamel, polishing is a superficial smoothing process, and fluoride varnish adds a protective seal and remineralization benefit rather than exposing dentin.