Evaluation of enamel surface after bracket debonding and adhesive removal with six different methods

Abstract

Introduction/Objective. After an orthodontic brackets debonding procedure it is necessary to remove any residual adhesive from the tooth surface, as this is a common cause of enamel damage. The aim of this study is to evaluate the enamel surface after the application of six different methods of adhesive removal following brackets debonding, as well as to compare the duration of these procedures. Methods. For the purpose of this study, 245 human premolars were extracted as part of the orthodontic treatment. Metal brackets were bonded to 210 human premolars with the Aspire adhesive system. After the debonding of brackets, the samples were divided into six groups according to the adhesive removal method applied: tapered fissure tungsten carbide bur, round tungsten carbide bur, composite bur, abrasive disc, adhesive removing pliers, and ultrasonic scaler. Out of 245 premolars, 35 served as a control group. The duration of adhesive removal was recorded. Enamel damages were estimated according to the enamel surface index on the scanning electron microscopy images. Results. Maximum preservation of the enamel surface was accomplished by using a composite bur (1.08). The application of abrasive disc was significantly less time-consuming in comparison to the application of a composite bur (p < 0.01) and an ultrasonic scaler (p < 0.01). Conclusion. The most harmful for the enamel surface was the use of an ultrasonic scaler as well as a round tungsten carbide bur. Adhesive removal done by an abrasive disc thus proved one of the least damaging and the least time-consuming methods.