Stable self-etching copolymerizable primer compositions are provided including compounds having a polymerizable ethylenically unsaturated groups and acidic groups, and optionally comonomers and suitable solvents. Such compositions are used in conjunction with dental adhesives to provide one or multi-component dental systems capable of etching or decalcifying tooth dentin and enamel without the need for a separate rinse step. Methods of use of such compositions according to the present invention include application for priming and imparting enhanced adhesion between the primers, adhesives, and the tooth substrates such as dentin or cut or uncut enamel, and subsequently applied dental composites, restoratives or other dental components.