Abstract
The aim of this investigation was to study the inhibitory effect of fluoride-releasing adhesives on in vitro demineralization of uncovered enamel adjacent to a bonded orthodontic bracket. Bovine enamel, a glass-ionomer cement and a Bis GMA-based adhesive were used. Metal brackets were bonded to intact and acid-etched enamel, following this a number of the samples received an acidified fluoride (APF) application. Each sample was subjected to demineralization treatment in vitro, and subsequently sectioned and microscopically investigated for the formation of artificial caries. It is concluded that the fluoride-releasing glass-ionomer cement protected a substantial area of uncovered enamel adjacent to the cemented bracket. The opposite effect was observed for the Bis GMA adhesive. The artificial caries developed not only in the uncovered enamel, but also, to some extent, under the adhesive material. Topical fluoridation did not affect the results significantly.
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