Smear Layer

Adherent debris produced when cutting the enamel or dentin in cavity preparation. It is about 1 micron thick and its composition reflects the underlying dentin, although different quantities and qualities of smear layer can be produced by the various instrumentation techniques. Its function is presumed to be protective, as it lowers dentin permeability. However, it masks the underlying dentin and interferes with attempts to bond dental material to the dentin.

Year introduced: 1992

PubMed search builder options

Subheadings:

Restrict to MeSH Major Topic.

Do not include MeSH terms found below this term in the MeSH hierarchy.

Tree Number(s): C07.793.208.688

MeSH Unique ID: D016369

Entry Terms:

• Layer, Smear

Previous Indexing:

• Dental Cavity Preparation (1981-1991)
• Dental Pulp Cavity (1981-1991)
• Dentin (1981-1991)

All MeSH Categories
Diseases Category
Stomatognathic Diseases
Tooth Diseases
Dental Deposits
Smear Layer