A clinical evaluation of the effectiveness of a fluoride-releasing visible light-activated bonding system to reduce demineralization around orthodontic brackets

Abstract

The presence of decalcification (white spots) after the removal of orthodontic appliances still remains a problem. A method to deliver fluoride to the area beneath and around the bonded attachments, independent of patient compliance, could be very helpful. Therefore special attention is being currently directed to the so-called "fluoride releasing bonding adhesives." A clinical trial was carried out to compare the effect of a visible light-cured fluoride-releasing (F-releasing) material with a chemically cured nonfluoride resin on white spot formation during fixed orthodontic therapy. Fifty patients entered the trial, and 762 brackets were bonded in a crossover design. Intraoral slides were taken before and after treatment and were evaluated for white spot formation. Statistical data analysis was carried out by means of a chi-square test. The results of this clinical study indicate that there was no significant difference between the decalcification rates for both types of adhesives. When the appearance of white spots was evaluated in an overall manner, there was significantly more upper than lower decalcification.