Self-etching bonding sustems have been clinically noted to desensitize at a very high rate, due to their mild etching pattern. Self-etching primers only etch to a depth of approximately 1 um instead of 8-10 um, like phosphoric acid. This slight etching depth results in much less exposed collagen fibers. Exposed collagen can inhibit bonding agents from completely sealing the surface of the dentin and can result in occasional post-operative pain. Self-etching primers eliminate this problem by performing light-etch and providing a better and more consistent seal of dentin.
