Dental sealants use of etching gel?

Does the etching gel used to place dental sealants damage enamel? Does enamel ever come back?

It cleans out the pores of the enamel so the sealant can attach to the tooth. It removes some of the minerals that are blocking the pores. It is only placed where the sealant material will be placed though. Also, the minerals are easily replaced by saliva and fluoride toothpastes.

it cleans pores of the enamel, but it doesnt damage the enamel itself:) so there is no worry about damaging the enamel...good question though:)

HELLO,
THE PHOSPHORIC ACID IS USED ON THE ENAMEL TO MAKE IT ABLE TO ADHERE TO THE DENTAL SEALANTS/OR SPECIAL CEMENTS USED TO BOND THE SEALANT.
THIS IS ANOTHER REASON WHY DRINKING TOO MUCH COLA WITH PHOSPHORIC ACID RUINS YOUR TEETH OVER TIME.

If no etching is done, the sealant won't stick.

The 37% phosphoric acid roughens up the enamel (creates microscopic crevices between enamel prism rods) so that the sealant can flow into the crevices and mechanically lock in when zapped with a light to harden. When properly etched and bonded, sealants and composite fillings are very strong.

If you attempt to bond to a completely smooth enamel surface that has not been etched, the sealant or filling will just shear right off.

The momentary exposure to etching solution will not damage your enamel, especially since the etched surface will be immediately sealed off with bonding agent or sealant and become completely smooth again.

Hope this helps.