Evaluation of modified protocols for ceramic brackets bonding and adhesive remnant removal focused on preserving enamel integrity

• Grant number: 11/11986-9
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: March 01, 2012
• End date: February 28, 2014
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Dental Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Edson Alves de Campos
• Grantee: Edson Alves de Campos
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia (FOAr). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Araraquara. Araraquara , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The bond strength at the ceramic bracket/adhesive/enamel interfaces is related to excessively high values, which may lead to undesirable complications such as cracks and enamel fractures during their removal at the end of orthodontic treatment. During the removal, ceramic brackets tend to fracture leaving variable amount of ceramic and adhesive remnant fragments over enamel. The purposes of the studies that make part of this project are: Study 1 - To evaluate the influence of different enamel conditioning and adhesive system photo-activating protocols on the bond strength of ceramic bracket to enamel and assessment of the amount of ceramic and adhesive remnants left over enamel surfaces, after debonding procedures at the testing machine and by using orthodontic pliers. Study 2 - Microscopically evaluate the effects of 5 different methods used to remove adhesive remnants on the enamel surface. Initial and final characteristics of enamel surfaces will be comparatively assessed after each method usage. The time spent with the procedures will also be evaluated. At the end of Study 1 the authors intend to identify ceramic brackets bonding protocols able on resisting for treatment period, but that provides easier debonding procedures without damages to enamel surfaces. The authors intend to identify the methods to remove adhesive remnants that seem to be more conservative for the enamel surfaces. (AU)