Evaluation of the Effect of Enamel Deproteinization Combined with a Self-etching Primer on the Adhesion of Orthodontic Brackets: An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Aim: The study aimed to evaluate enamel deproteinization with sodium hypochlorite in the enamel conditioning using a self-etching primer for adhesion in orthodontic brackets. Background: The bonding in orthodontics plays a major role in the success of the treatment. The self-etching primers reduce the chair time and diminish the risk of saliva contamination. Methods: The sample comprised 80 bovines' incisors, divided into 4 groups according to the deproteinization process and adhesive system used: G1: enamel deproteinization + Transbond Plus self-etching primer + Transbond XT adhesive; G2: enamel deproteinization + 37% phosphoric acid + conventional primer + and Transbond XT adhesive; G3: Transbond Plus self-etching primer + Transbond XT adhesive; and G4: 37% phosphoric acid + conventional primer + Transbond XT adhesive. EMIC® DL 500 Universal Testing Machine was used for testing the shear bond strength of the samples. Results: Brackets bonded with self-etching primer showed greater adhesion force. The enamel deproteinization did not improve the bonding strength, regardless of the primer used. Conclusion: The deproteinization process does not improve the result of the adhesive bonding when using a self-etching primer in vitro.