Korean J Orthod.  2005 Feb;35(1):43-50.

The effects of a sealant resin on enamel demineralization in orthodontic bracket bonding

• Youn YA
• Cho JH
• Lee KH

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a sealant resin on enamel demineralization in orthodontic bracket bonding. The forty eight extracted sound bovine teeth were subdivided into four groups and treated with Phase II(R) (Reliance, Itasca, Ill) on the surface. Group 1 was not treated. Group 2 was acid etched with 37% phosphoric acid for 30 seconds. Group 3 was applied with sealant after acid etching. Group 4 was applied with resin paste after acid etching and sealant application. Each group was demineralized in artificial caries solution. Demineralized enamel depth was measured by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The results were as follows: the mean demineralized enamel depth was 47.4 micrometer (Group 1), 61.8 micrometer (Group 2), 13.9 micrometer (Group 3), 8.2 micrometer (Group 4); the demineralized enamel depth was increased in Group 2 than in Group 1 (p < 0.05); the demineralized enamel depth was reduced in Group 3 than in Group1 and Group 2 with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05); and demineralization in Group 4 was very little. The results of the present study indicate that sealant application is useful for reducing enamel demineralization in orthodontic bracket bonding.

Keyword

Sealant resin; Enamel demineralization

MeSH Terms

Dental Enamel*
Microscopy, Confocal
Orthodontic Brackets*
Tooth