Effect of resin infiltration application on early proximal caries lesions in vitro

Resin infiltration (RI) material ICON is used in treating early proximal caries lesions, as it depends on a micro–invasive infiltration technology. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the effect of ICON resin infiltration (RI) on early proximal caries by comparing surface roughness and hardness before and after treatment with RI using atomic force microscopy (AFM), automated microhardness testing system (AMHTS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in vitro. Twenty seven premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons were sectioned buccolingually, creating 54 specimens. Each specimen was immersed in demineralizing solution to induce caries. Only teeth with “International Caries Detection and Assessment System” codes 1 and 2 were selected. The specimens were divided randomly into either AFM, AMHTS or SEM groups, which examined demineralized enamel before and after treatment with ICON. The mean average surface roughness and root mean square roughness values of demineralized enamel treated with ICON were significantly higher than untreated lesions (P