Comparison between different interdental stripping methods and evaluation of abrasive strips: SEM analysis

Area of Science:

• Dental materials science
• Conservative dentistry
• Surface analysis

Background:

• Dental enamel stripping is used to correct tooth shape and alignment.
• Different mechanical and chemical methods exist, each potentially affecting enamel surface integrity.
• Surface irregularities can impact plaque accumulation and caries risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the surface irregularities caused by various mechanical (strips, burs) and chemical (orthophosphoric acid) stripping methods.
• To evaluate the effects of finishing procedures (polishing strips) and sealant application on stripped enamel surfaces.
• To determine the optimal stripping and finishing protocol for achieving the smoothest enamel surface and to analyze abrasive strip wear.

Main Methods:

• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine 160 proximal enamel surfaces from 80 sound molar teeth.
• Teeth were divided into a control group and five experimental groups based on stripping method (mechanical and chemical).
• Experimental groups were further subdivided to assess finishing procedures or sealant application.

Main Results:

• Finishing stages significantly reduced groove depth and number created by stripping.
• Sealant application after air rotor stripping improved surface smoothness.
• Combinations of mechanical and chemical stripping yielded unsatisfactory results.
• SEM analysis revealed varying degrees of wear among different abrasive strip types.

Conclusions:

• Enamel damage is minimized when finishing procedures are consistently applied, irrespective of the abrasive strip type.
• Sealants are advisable after air rotor stripping to enhance surface smoothness, though clinical application may be limited.
• The study highlights the importance of finishing protocols in managing enamel surface morphology after stripping procedures.