The effect of using Er,Cr:YSGG laser in debonding stainless steel orthodontic brackets: an in vitro study

Abstract

Conventional methods for orthodontic metal brackets debonding produce forces that are high enough to cause enamel scratches, fracture, and patient’s discomfort. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of Er,Cr:YSGG laser in debonding metal orthodontic brackets in comparison to conventional debonding method. Stainless steel orthodontic brackets were bonded on the buccal surface of 30 freshly extracted human premolars teeth which were divided into two groups: (1) control group; conventional bracket debonding, using debonding plier and (2) test group; Er,Cr:YSGG laser (2.78 μm, 6 W, 20 Hz, 60 μs pulse duration) were used for laser debonding. Adhesive Remnants Index (ARI) was assessed using scanning electron microscope images and statistically compared between both groups. The time needed for debonding in both groups was also recorded and statistically compared. The results of this study showed that in test group, the used laser irradiation parameters effectively debonded all metal brackets. Mann-Whitney U test showed lower ARI scores in the test irradiated group when compared to the control group. The results also showed that higher time values were needed for debonding of metal brackets in test group when compared to the control group. The Er,Cr:YSGG laser can be used for effective debonding of stainless steel orthodontic brackets.