Ciloglu, MehmetKeskin, Gul2026-01-242026-01-2420241053-46281557-5268https://doi.org/10.22514/jocpd.2024.021https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12868/5301This study evaluated the effect of repeated etching cycles on resin infiltrant penetration. Enamel samples measuring 4 x 4 x 3 mm(3) were obtained from the facial aspect of 50 extracted bovine teeth. Samples were immersed in a demineralization solution for 21 days to create artificial lesions and divided into five equal groups (n = 10). A 15% hydrochloric acid gel was administered to each group. The acid etching application time differed between groups: Group 1; 2 min, Group 2; 2 x 2 min, Group 3; 3 x 2 min, Group 4; 4 x 2 min, and Group 5; 5 x 2 min. Resin infiltration was visualized using a confocal laser scanning microscopy. The lesion, penetration and erosion depth (mu m) were calculated, and data were statistically analyzed. The highest penetration depth (75.59 +/- 9.42 mu m) was seen in Group 5, followed by Groups 4, 3, 2 and 1. However, there were no statistically significant differences in the penetration depths between Groups 4 and 5 and between Groups 2, 3 and 4 (p > 0.05). In conclusion, a repeated etching cycle enhanced resin infiltrant penetration.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/openAccessConfocal laser scanning microscopyResin infiltrationEnamel cariesAcid etchingArticle10.22514/jocpd.2024.021481191197382391722-s2.0-85182480115Q2WOS:001141831700023Q2