This study assessed the effect various scanning electron microscopy (SEM) desiccation preparation techniques have on a tufted collagen surface produced using an acid-burnished (rubbed) demineralization application technique. Citric acid- soaked cotton pellets (30%) were burnished on the dentin treatment region, rinsed in water, and then fixed. Four SEM desiccation preparation techniques were employed: (1) air-dried from glutaraldehyde; (2) air-dried from ethanol; (3) critical point dried from liquid carbon dioxide (control); or (4) air-dried from tetramethylsilane. Control specimens all displayed a characteristic tufted fibril surface. In all experimental groups fibrils collapsed, forming an intact, undulating nondescript surface monolayer. All air-drying SEM desiccation preparation procedures appear to cause artifactual distortion of a tufted dentin collagen surface.