Assessment of Smear Layer Formation After Caries Removal Using Erbium Laser and Papain-Based Chemo-Mechanical Caries Removal Agent: An In Vitro Scanning Electron Microscopy Study.

Introduction With the advancement in the field of adhesive dentistry, there has been a significant and groundbreaking shift toward the adoption of minimally invasive caries removal techniques where substrate modification is known to enhance adhesive bonding. The smear layer has always been controversial, as its modification helps in bonding, but if contaminated with bacteria, it compromises the formation of a satisfactory marginal seal. Thus, the recognition of the role played by the smear layer highlights the importance of the type of caries removal method employed.