Enamel surface evaluation after removal of orthodontic composite remnants by intraoral sandblasting: A 3-dimensional surface profilometry study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the utility of sandblasting to remove composite remnants after orthodontic bracket debonding. The sample consisted of 20 human premolars extracted for orthodontic purposes. The buccal surface of each premolar was divided into 3 parts: the upper half (control surface group, CS), the lower half left (LS group), and the lower half right (SS group). A composite resin paste (volume, 5 x 3 x 1 mm3) was bonded onto the LS and SS surfaces. Then it was removed by using 1 of 2 methods: low-speed handpiece with tungsten carbide bur in the LS group and sandblasting in the SS group. Temperature change and removal time were recorded, and surface profiles were examined with 3-dimensional profilometry. An independent t test showed a statistically significant difference in temperature change between the LS and SS groups (P <.01). ANOVA showed no significant difference in surface profile between the LS and SS groups (P >.5). The results suggest that intraoral sandblasting might be an alternative to rotatory instruments for resin remnant removal after orthodontic bracket debonding.