Distortion of edgewise orthodontic brackets associated with different methods of debonding

The effects of three different methods of bracket removal on the dimensions of the arch wire slot of edgewise brackets were examined. Gross distortion (visible to the naked eye) and microscopic distortion were found for all three methods. Gross bracket distortion was found infrequently with one method. At a microscopic level, all methods produced approximately equal levels of distortion, principally an increase in vertical slot dimensions. The implications of these findings for recycling brackets are discussed.