Orthodontic Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Orthodontic, including details on braces, retainers, treatment.

Examination of six orthodontic adhesives with electron microscopy, hardness tester and energy dispersive X-ray microanalyzer.

Vilchis RJ, Hotta Y, Yamamoto K

Department of Oral Functional Science and Rehabilitation, Asahi University, Gifu, Japan. rogelio_scougall@hotmail.com

OBJECTIVE: To examine the ultrastructure of six light-cure orthodontic adhesives with scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM), microhardness tester, and energy dispersive X-ray microanalyzer (EDX). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The orthodontic adhesives evaluated were Transbond XT, Light Bond, BeautyOrtho Bond, Kurasper F, Heliosit Orthodontic, and Salivatect. Specimens of each adhesive were carefully prepared for observation under SEM and TEM. Furthermore, the Vickers hardness was tested, and the adhesives were evaluated with EDX. RESULTS: SEM and TEM images illustrated great diversity of the adhesives ultrastructure. The Vickers hardness test showed significant differences among all the adhesives (except Transbond XT and Salivatect). Although some similar elements were detected with EDX, the concentration was different in each adhesive. CONCLUSION: Orthodontic brackets can be bonded to the enamel surface with the adhesives available on the market. However, orthodontists might achieve better results identifying their properties and compositions.

Published 27 February 2008 in Angle Orthod, 78(4): 655-61.
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