What is the effectiveness of acid etch dependent on?

The effectiveness of acid etching is indeed largely dependent on the chemical and physical nature of the tooth. This quality determines how well the enamel and dentin will react to the etching process. Enamel, for example, is highly organized and has a crystalline structure that reacts with acidic substances, which is pivotal in achieving a proper bond for subsequent restorative materials. Dentin, being more porous and having a different composition, may respond differently to acid etching, affecting the overall bonding quality.

While the material used to clean the tooth surface, the effectiveness of the etchant, and the area and surface characteristics of the enamel are all relevant factors, they are not as fundamental as the inherent properties of the tooth itself. The tooth's chemical constitution influences how the etching process alters its surface, ultimately affecting the effectiveness of bonding agents and materials used in dental procedures. This foundational aspect underlines the importance of understanding the tooth's structure and composition in dental practice.