Clinical Overview
Ultradent™ Porcelain Etch Mini Refill contains a viscous, buffered 9–9.6 % hydrofluoric acid gel formulated for controlled etching of silica‑based dental ceramics—such as porcelain veneers, crowns, bridges, inlays/onlays, lithium disilicate (e.max®), and fractured porcelain. It produces a high‑bond‑strength surface to resin cements without staining composite or resin materials, and may be used intra‑ or extra‑orally with proper isolation.
Key Benefits
- Buffered, high‑viscosity gel: Controlled placement with minimal run‑off and clear visibility thanks to yellow tint.
- Optimized etch time: 90‑second protocol yields optimal micromechanical retention without over‑etching.
- Stain‑free chemistry: Does not discolor adjacent resin or composite materials.
- Designed for silica ceramics: Strong adhesion to porcelain and lithium disilicate; not for zirconia.
- Certified gluten‑free: Safe use in sensitive patients.
Kit Contents
- 2 × 1.2 mL syringes of Porcelain Etch gel (≈9–9.6% buffered hydrofluoric acid)
Working & Etching Protocol
- Etch duration: Apply gel to porcelain surface for 90 seconds.
- Rinse & dry: Thoroughly rinse and air‑dry immediately after etch.
- Silane application: Apply silane for 60 seconds post‑etch to maximize porcelain‑to‑resin bond strength.
- Optional 5‑second Ultra‑Etch™ phosphoric acid rinse may be used to remove porcelain salts after etching.
Indications
- Etching of silica‑based ceramics: porcelain, e.max®, feldspathic, lithium silicate restorations
- Preparation of fractured ceramic surfaces intra‑orally or in the lab
- Orthodontic bracket placement on porcelain restored surfaces
Instructions for Use
- Isolate working field with rubber dam or appropriate tissue protection (e.g. EtchArrest).
- Dry the porcelain or ceramic surface completely.
- Express gel onto surface using Inspiral Brush tip; ensure uniform coverage and visibility. Allow gel to remain for 90 s.
- Rinse meticulously and air‑dry until etched surface appears frosty and clean.
- (Optional) Lightly apply Ultra‑Etch™ phosphoric acid for ~5 s to remove precipitated salts, then rinse and dry.
- Apply a silane coupling agent for 60 s; air‑dry—do not rinse.
- Proceed with resin cementation following adhesive protocol. Do not etch zirconia-based restorations.
Summary
Ultradent™ Porcelain Etch Mini Refill (Ref. 406) provides a high‑viscosity, buffered hydrofluoric acid gel for predictable, high‑strength bonding to porcelain and lithium disilicate restorations. In combination with silane application, it facilitates superior adhesion without staining, precise placement, or over‑etching. Designed for precise clinical use—both intra‑ and extra‑orally—this refill supports dependable porcelain surface preparation in restorative and orthodontic workflows.
