Evaluation and comparison of effects of recycling on the shutter mechanism and shear bond strength (SBS) of various self-ligating brackets: An in vitro study

Abstract

Introduction The procedures like sandblasting and direct flaming to remove the residual composite from brackets may affect the material properties of brackets, including the shutter mechanism and it’s shear bond strength. This study focuses on the comparison of these properties in new brackets and recycled brackets of various commercially available self-ligating brackets. Objectives To compare the effects of recycling on shutter mechanism and shear bond strength of different manufacturing companies of self-ligating brackets. Methodology Teeth will be mounted on acrylic blocks of different colors and the self-ligating brackets will be bonded on them. These brackets will be debonded by using universal testing machine and the shear bond strength and opening and closing force of shutter will be measured. The debonded brackets will be rebonded after recycling by sandblasting and flaming and the SBS and shutter mechanism force will be measured again and then will be compared with above mentioned group. Expected results The force of closing and opening the shutter mechanism of different commercially available self-ligating brackets will increase. There will be a decrease in the shear bond strength of the different self-ligating brackets available on the market. Conclusion We will be able to determine the quality of commercially available brackets despite recycling by examining the force necessary for opening and closing the shutters of self-ligating brackets, as well as their shear bond strength to ensure that even after recycling, the brackets retain their mechanical integrity and bond strength.