Smear Layer
"Smear Layer" is a descriptor in the National Library of Medicine's controlled vocabulary thesaurus,
MeSH (Medical Subject Headings). Descriptors are arranged in a hierarchical structure,
which enables searching at various levels of specificity.
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.
| Descriptor ID |
D016369
|
| MeSH Number(s) |
C07.793.208.688
|
| Concept/Terms |
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Below are MeSH descriptors whose meaning is more general than "Smear Layer".
Below are MeSH descriptors whose meaning is more specific than "Smear Layer".
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