Comparison Table for Etchant Extraoral
Product Name | Active Ingredient | Volume | Special Features | Intended Use |
---|---|---|---|---|
Pulpdent Porcelain Etch Gel | 9.6% hydrofluoric acid | Kit | One-minute etch, thixotropic, stays where placed, washes off easily, does not stain ceramic | Etching porcelain crowns, veneers, inlays or fractured porcelain surfaces prior to cementation or bonding with resins and resin cements, also used to etch hybrid composites |
Porcelain Etch Gel – Syringe Refill | 9.6% hydrofluoric acid | 3 ml | One-minute etch, thixotropic, stays where placed, washes off easily, does not stain ceramic | Etching porcelain crowns, veneers, inlays or fractured porcelain surfaces prior to cementation or bonding with resins and resin cements, also used to etch hybrid composites |
CEREC® Ceramics Etch | 5% hydrofluoric acid | 6 ml | N/A | Etching ceramic restorations |
Porcelain Etch 9.5% Hydrofluoric Acid Refill | 9.5% hydrofluoric acid | 1.2 ml | Rinses clean away, silane solution used after etchant enhances the bonding of resin material | Use on porcelain veneers and inlays prior to cementation or repairs |
Z-Bond Zirconia and Multi-Surface Primer | N/A | N/A | Adhesive intraoral repair of defects in zirconia and alumina restorations, conditioning of zirconia and alumina restorations | Brush on single bottle prime for zirconia and alumina ceramics used prior to dental filling materials for direct restoration (repair) and cements for indirect restoration. Contraindicated on lithium disilicates where silanes perform better. Primarily for zirconia and alumina, but it also provides improved adhesion when used to prepare precious and non-precious metals |
Ceram-Etch™ Porcelain Etching Gel | 9.5% hydrofluoric acid | 15 cc | No neutralizer is required, rinse the restoration with water and place in an ultrasonic cleaner, packaged in a 15 cc bottle | Etching “all porcelain” restorations to enhance bond strength by dissolving certain elements in the porcelain to create undercuts and voids in which the composite resin can flow |
Tri-Dynamics Gel for Ceramics Etching Gel | N/A | 15 ml | Chemically etches the entire surface where the gel comes in contact with the ceramic material, creating a roughened surface | Used for etching ceramics to create a roughened undercut surface |
Uni-Dose 9.6% Hydrofluoric Acid Porcelain Etchant | 9.6% hydrofluoric acid | 0.2 cc | Each microdose finger applicator unit is sufficient for etching two to four porcelain facings and yields superior retention | Etching porcelain facings |
Cerpress SL Etching Gel | 9.5% hydrofluoric acid | 5 cc | N/A | Part of the Cerpress SL Pressable Ceramic System |
Mirage 9.6 Hydrofluoric Acid Etching Gel | Hydro | 1.2 cc | Used to etch porcelain and composites | N/A |
1. Pulpdent Porcelain Etch Gel

Product Description
Pulpdent Porcelain Etch Gel is a 9.6% hydrofluoric acid gel formulated for the precise etching of porcelain surfaces, including crowns, veneers, inlays, and fractured areas prior to bonding or cementation. It can also be used to etch hybrid composites, offering versatility in restorative procedures.
Product Overview
This thixotropic gel is designed for ease of use, staying exactly where placed for a one-minute etch. It rinses off easily and does not stain ceramic, making it ideal for aesthetic restorations where cleanliness and precision are essential.
Key Features
9.6% hydrofluoric acid concentration
One-minute etch for efficient application
Thixotropic gel stays in place during use
Easily rinses off without residue
Does not stain ceramic materials
Compatible with resins and resin cements
Common Applications
Etching porcelain crowns, veneers, and inlays
Preparing fractured porcelain for bonding
Etching hybrid composites before cementation
Use in restorative and cosmetic dentistry
Technical Specifications
Manufacturer: Pulpdent
Product Type: Porcelain Etch Gel
Acid Concentration: 9.6% Hydrofluoric Acid
Form: Thixotropic Gel
Etch Time: 1 minute
Stain-Free: Yes
Package Quantity: Varies by supplier
Customer Ratings and Pricing
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Excellent control with no running
Cleans off easily and leaves no marks
Highly effective in short etch time
Reliable product for porcelain restorations
Top 10 Dental Etching Gel Brands
2. Porcelain Etch Gel – Syringe Refill

Product Description
The Porcelain Etch Gel – Syringe Refill by Pulpdent contains a 9.6% hydrofluoric acid formula specifically designed for etching porcelain surfaces prior to bonding or cementation. Ideal for crowns, veneers, inlays, fractured porcelain, and hybrid composites, this refill is suitable for precision etching applications.
Product Overview
This refill version delivers the same thixotropic, non-drip gel that stays where it’s applied, ensuring safety and control. It provides a one-minute etch time and rinses off cleanly without staining ceramic surfaces, supporting efficient and clean restorations.
Key Features
9.6% hydrofluoric acid concentration
One-minute etch time for fast results
Thixotropic consistency for precision placement
Washes off easily with no residue
Does not discolor ceramic surfaces
Designed for refill use with dispensing syringes
Common Applications
Etching porcelain crowns, veneers, inlays
Preparing fractured porcelain for bonding
Etching hybrid composite surfaces
Use in aesthetic and restorative dentistry
Technical Specifications
Manufacturer: Pulpdent
Product Type: Porcelain Etch Gel – Syringe Refill
Acid Concentration: 9.6% Hydrofluoric Acid
Form: Thixotropic Gel
Etch Time: 1 minute
Stain-Free: Yes
Package Quantity: Varies by supplier (syringe refill format)
Customer Ratings and Pricing
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Great consistency and control
Perfect for touch-ups and small applications
Leaves surfaces clean and ready for bonding
Reliable choice for porcelain restorations
3. CEREC® Ceramics Etch

Product Description
CEREC Ceramics Etch is a 5% hydrofluoric acid gel formulated for etching ceramic restorations such as crowns, veneers, and inlays. It is designed specifically for indirect restorations and should not be used on tooth structure.
Product Overview
This gel provides effective surface preparation for ceramic bonding, improving adhesion when used with resin-based cements. It is ideal for CEREC and other CAD/CAM-generated ceramic restorations, delivering predictable results in restorative procedures.
Key Features
5% hydrofluoric acid concentration
Designed for ceramic restoration etching
Not intended for use on enamel or dentin
Optimized for CAD/CAM restorations
Improves resin cement bonding performance
Common Applications
Etching ceramic crowns, veneers, and inlays
Preparing CAD/CAM restorations for cementation
Enhancing bond strength in indirect restorations
Use in prosthodontic and restorative dentistry
Technical Specifications
Manufacturer: Varies (CEREC system compatible)
Product Type: Ceramics Etch Gel
Acid Concentration: 5% Hydrofluoric Acid
Indications: Ceramic surfaces only
Tooth Etching: Not suitable
Package Quantity: Varies by supplier
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Consistent results with CEREC restorations
Easy to apply and rinse off
Trusted for indirect ceramic bonding
Effective but must be used as directed
4. Porcelain Etch 9.5% Hydrofluoric Acid Refill

Product Description
Porcelain Etch 9.5% Hydrofluoric Acid Refill is a highly effective etching gel formulated for preparing porcelain veneers and inlays prior to cementation or repair procedures. Its viscous consistency allows for controlled application on ceramic surfaces.
Product Overview
This gel rinses off cleanly, leaving a well-prepared surface for optimal bonding. It is designed for use with a silane solution to enhance resin adhesion, making it an excellent choice for restorative and cosmetic applications involving porcelain substrates.
Key Features
9.5% hydrofluoric acid concentration
Viscous gel for precision control
Rinses off easily without residue
Recommended for use with silane for stronger bonding
Ideal for porcelain veneers and inlays
Common Applications
Etching porcelain surfaces before cementation
Preparing inlays and veneers for resin bonding
Supporting porcelain repair procedures
Use in cosmetic and restorative dental cases
Technical Specifications
Product Type: Porcelain Etch Gel Refill
Acid Concentration: 9.5% Hydrofluoric Acid
Form: Viscous gel
Compatible Materials: Porcelain veneers, inlays
Recommended Use: With silane solution
Package Quantity: Varies by supplier
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Provides excellent surface prep for bonding
Rinses off clean and easy
Highly recommended when used with silane
Reliable performance in porcelain restorations
5. Z-Bond Zirconia and Multi-Surface Primer

Product Description
Z-Bond is a single-bottle primer specifically formulated to improve adhesion on zirconia and alumina ceramics. It is applied by brush prior to using dental filling materials for direct repairs or cements for indirect restorations, ensuring stronger bonds and longer-lasting results.
Product Overview
Ideal for intraoral repairs and cementation, Z-Bond enhances bonding strength on zirconia and alumina surfaces. While it can also be used on precious and non-precious metals, it is not recommended for lithium disilicate ceramics, where silane-based primers are more effective.
Key Features
Single-bottle brush-on primer
Optimized for zirconia and alumina ceramics
Improves adhesion for both direct and indirect restorations
Also compatible with precious and non-precious metals
Not recommended for lithium disilicate
Common Applications
Intraoral repair of zirconia and alumina restorations
Conditioning surfaces prior to cementing crowns, inlays, onlays
Bonding preparation for metal surfaces in dental restorations
Technical Specifications
Product Type: Multi-Surface Primer
Application: Brush-on
Compatible Materials: Zirconia, alumina, precious and non-precious metals
Contraindications: Not suitable for lithium disilicate
Package Quantity: Varies by supplier
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Strong and reliable bonding on zirconia
Easy to apply with brush-on format
Useful across a range of surfaces
Noted improvement in adhesion before cementation
6. Ceram-Etch™ Porcelain Etching Gel

Product Description
Ceram-Etch Porcelain Etching Gel is a 9.5% hydrofluoric acid solution developed for the effective etching of all-porcelain dental restorations. It enhances mechanical retention by creating micro-undercuts and voids that allow for strong resin bonding.
Product Overview
This gel does not require a neutralizing agent and is designed to rinse off cleanly with water. After rinsing, the restoration should be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner for optimal preparation. Ceram-Etch is packaged in a 15 cc bottle and is manufactured in the USA for quality assurance.
Key Features
9.5% hydrofluoric acid concentration
Ideal for all-porcelain restorations
Creates undercuts for enhanced resin bonding
No neutralizer required
Rinses clean with water
Made in the USA
Common Applications
Etching porcelain veneers, crowns, and inlays
Preparing ceramic surfaces for resin bonding
Use in aesthetic and restorative procedures
Compatible with ultrasonic cleaning protocols
Technical Specifications
Product Type: Porcelain Etching Gel
Acid Concentration: 9.5% Hydrofluoric Acid
Bottle Size: 15 cc
Neutralizer: Not required
Post-Etch Cleaning: Rinse and ultrasonic cleaning recommended
Made In: USA
Package Quantity: 1 bottle (15 cc)
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Easy to use and very effective
Great results with porcelain bonding
Convenient bottle size
No mess, no need for neutralizing step
7. Tri-Dynamics Gel for Ceramics Etching Gel

Product Description
Tri-Dynamics Gel for Ceramics is a specialized etching gel formulated to chemically treat ceramic surfaces by creating a roughened, micro-retentive surface. This process improves mechanical bonding by allowing composite resins to flow into the undercut areas formed during etching.
Product Overview
This gel is designed for use on a wide range of ceramic materials, providing effective surface preparation prior to bonding. Its chemical action ensures uniform etching wherever the gel is applied, promoting consistent and strong adhesion in restorative procedures.
Key Features
Chemically etches ceramic materials
Creates undercuts for enhanced mechanical retention
Improves bonding surface for resin-based materials
Uniform coverage and effective surface roughening
Ideal for a variety of ceramic restorations
Common Applications
Etching ceramic crowns, veneers, and inlays
Preparing surfaces for adhesive bonding
Use in restorative and prosthetic procedures
Enhancing composite resin retention
Technical Specifications
Product Type: Ceramic Etching Gel
Indications: Ceramic surface treatment
Effect: Surface roughening and undercut formation
Application Area: Entire area of gel contact
Package Quantity: Varies by supplier
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Reliable etch for consistent bonding
Works well across various ceramic types
Creates a strong surface profile for resin
Easy to apply and rinse off
8. Uni-Dose 9.6% Hydrofluoric Acid Porcelain Etchant

Product Description
Uni-Dose 9.6% Hydrofluoric Acid Porcelain Etchant is a single-use etching solution designed for maximum convenience and efficiency in porcelain bonding procedures. Each 0.2 cc microdose unit provides enough gel to etch two to four porcelain facings with superior bond retention.
Product Overview
Packaged in individual finger applicator units, Uni-Dose delivers precise control and eliminates waste. Its 9.6% hydrofluoric acid formula ensures consistent etching for enhanced mechanical adhesion, making it ideal for both small cases and chairside touch-ups.
Key Features
9.6% hydrofluoric acid concentration
Pre-measured 0.2 cc single-use applicators
Sufficient for 2–4 porcelain facings per unit
Improves retention for resin bonding
Convenient and hygienic packaging
Common Applications
Etching porcelain veneers and crowns
Chairside bonding preparation
Quick application for small or urgent cases
Enhancing resin bonding strength on porcelain
Technical Specifications
Product Type: Porcelain Etchant (Single-use)
Form: 0.2 cc finger applicator
Acid Concentration: 9.6% Hydrofluoric Acid
Application Range: 2–4 porcelain facings per unit
Package Quantity: Varies by supplier
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Perfect for fast and precise applications
Minimizes waste and mess
Excellent bond strength achieved
Highly convenient for clinical use
9. Cerpress SL Etching Gel

Product Description
Cerpress SL Etching Gel is a 9.5% hydrofluoric acid gel developed as part of the Cerpress SL Pressable Ceramic System. It is specifically formulated for etching pressable ceramic restorations, enhancing the surface for reliable bonding with resin cements.
Product Overview
Designed to complement the Cerpress SL ceramic workflow, this etching gel provides consistent surface roughening to improve mechanical retention. It is ideal for dental professionals working with pressable ceramics in aesthetic and restorative procedures.
Key Features
9.5% hydrofluoric acid concentration
Optimized for use with Cerpress SL ceramic system
Improves bonding strength for resin cements
Effective surface preparation for pressable ceramics
Smooth and controlled gel consistency
Common Applications
Etching pressable ceramic restorations
Preparing surfaces for resin bonding
Use in aesthetic and prosthetic workflows
Part of the Cerpress SL system protocol
Technical Specifications
Product Type: Ceramic Etching Gel
System Compatibility: Cerpress SL Pressable Ceramic System
Acid Concentration: 9.5% Hydrofluoric Acid
Indications: Pressable ceramics
Package Quantity: Varies by supplier
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Works seamlessly with Cerpress restorations
Provides strong and consistent etch
Easy to apply and rinse
Trusted for high-aesthetic cases
10. Mirage 9.6% Hydrofluoric Acid Etching Gel

Product Description
Mirage 9.6% Hydrofluoric Acid Etching Gel is a dental-grade etchant formulated for effective surface preparation of porcelain and composite materials. It creates the necessary micro-retentive texture required for strong resin bonding.
Product Overview
This high-concentration gel is ideal for both restorative and cosmetic dental procedures. Its controlled viscosity ensures precise application and reliable etching on a variety of ceramic and composite surfaces, enhancing adhesion and treatment outcomes.
Key Features
9.6% hydrofluoric acid concentration
Suitable for porcelain and composite etching
Provides micro-retention for better bonding
Controlled gel consistency for precise application
Effective for aesthetic and restorative work
Common Applications
Etching porcelain veneers, crowns, and inlays
Surface preparation of composite restorations
Enhancing resin adhesion in cosmetic cases
Used in direct and indirect restoration workflows
Technical Specifications
Product Type: Etching Gel
Acid Concentration: 9.6% Hydrofluoric Acid
Compatible Materials: Porcelain, composite
Application: Surface roughening for bonding
Package Quantity: Varies by supplier
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Provides clean and effective etch
Ideal for porcelain repair cases
Applies evenly and stays in place
Strong results with resin bonding systems