ABSTRACT

Objective: To evaluate the effect of three remineralizing agents, in the shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets.

Methods: A total of 120 extracted human premolars were randomly divided into four groups (n = 30). Group I was the control group, in which the enamel was etched with 35% phosphoric acid, and stainless-steel brackets were bonded with Transbond XT Adhesive, then light cured for 6 seconds with an Ortholux lamp. In the remaining three groups, the same adhesive procedure that was described in the control group was made. However, before being light-cured, the remineralizating agents were applied on the surrounding area of the bracket: group II, Clinpro XT Varnish; group III, MI Paste Plus; group IV, Fluor Protector. The samples were stored (37°C, 24 hours) and debonded with a universal testing machine. The adhesive remnant index (ARI) including enamel fracture score was also evaluated.

Results: The SBS values of the groups II (15.7 ± 3.4 MPa) and III (15.8 ± 4.2 MPa) were significantly higher than the group IV (11.0 ± 3.8 MPa). The ARI in the Group II showed the lowest amount of adhesive remaining and the largest amount of adhesive was shown by the Group IV. No enamel fractures were observed during the tests.

Conclusion: The use of three remineralizing agents did not compromise bracket bond strength, and they can be considered as an alternative preventive application in orthodontic practice.