Comparison of the Conventional and Laser Etching on the Bonding of the Orthodontic Brackets: An Original Research.

BACKGROUND: Acid etching enamel improves resin-enamel adhesion and adhesive characteristics, but has pros and cons. The effects of laser etching on the bonding of orthodontic brackets vary depending on the wavelength, power output, exposure duration, and energy delivered.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study used a new 1064-nm diode laser to irradiate 30 freshly extracted human premolars. They were divided into three groups: group A, group B, and group C. Acid etching was used for 1 min to bond bracket to tooth surface, and Indian ink was used for 30 s. Group C uses acid etching for 1 min following 30 s of laser irradiation with Indian ink.

RESULTS: In comparison to the other groups, group C's acid etching after laser irradiation has considerably stronger bond strength ( P = 0.05). Orthodontic brackets in group B exhibited considerably poorer shear bond strength than those in the other groups.

CONCLUSION: Acid etching improves the adhesion of orthodontic composite resin to human enamel following laser irradiation, but can interfere with the adhesion of composite resin.