Bracket Transfer Accuracy with the Indirect Bonding Technique-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Indirect bonding (IDB) is a widely used technique in orthodontics for precise bracket placement.
• Evaluating the accuracy of IDB is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze the bracket transfer accuracy of the indirect bonding technique (IDB).
• To assess linear and angular mean transfer errors (MTE) associated with IDB.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed across major databases (PubMed MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus) up to November 2021.
• Included studies (n=16) were in vivo or ex vivo, comparing planned vs. achieved bracket positions using IDB.
• Meta-analysis was conducted on ex vivo studies, analyzing overall accuracy and subgroups based on tray type, tooth groups, jaw, and side.

Main Results:

• Overall linear MTEs were: mesiodistal 0.08 mm, vertical 0.09 mm, buccolingual 0.14 mm.
• Overall angular MTEs were: angulation 1.13°, rotation 0.93°, torque 1.11°.
• Silicone trays exhibited the highest accuracy, followed by vacuum-formed and 3D printed trays; minor differences were noted across tooth/jaw subgroups.

Conclusions:

• The indirect bonding technique (IDB) demonstrates clinically acceptable accuracy for orthodontic bracket placement.
• Silicone trays are recommended for enhanced precision in IDB procedures.
• Further research is needed to validate the accuracy assessment methods employed in IDB studies.