Removal of orthodontic bonding resin residues by CO2 laser radiation: Surface effects

Objective: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the potential use of pulsed CO2 laser radiation to remove selectively residues of orthod ontic bonding resin that remain after debonding of fixed orthodontic applia nces. Summary Background Data: Current techniques used for removal of ortho dontic bonding resin after removal of fixed appliances include rotary instr uments, debonding pliers, and ultrasonic scalers. These techniques, however , are time-consuming and inefficient, and may damage tooth enamel, Methods: A standardized cylinder of orthodontic bonding resin was bonded to the buc cal surfaces of 100 extracted premolar teeth, which were then divided into 10 groups of 10 specimens each. In 9 groups, the resin was ablated using 1 of 9 different laser parameters, while in the remaining control group, the resin was removed with a slow speed tungsten carbide bur, Specimens were ev aluated by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to asses s the amount of resin remaining and the extent of the damage to the underly ing enamel, Results: The 2 W/100 ms combination was optimal, with a high ef ficiency of resin removal and the least enamel damage, Higher laser powers increased the extent of enamel damage without enhancing resin removal, Conc lusions: This laser technique appears promising, however, further studies o f the extent of thermal changes at the level of the dental pulp are necessa ry to establish more fully the risk-benefit ratio.