Impact of Archwire Presence and Adhesive Removal Techniques on Enamel Crack Formation During Orthodontic Bracket...

Enamel cracks are a common complication following orthodontic bracket debonding and the removal of adhesives. This study investigated whether the presence of an archwire during debonding and the use of turbine (high-speed) versus angle (low-speed) tungsten carbide burs affect the number, length, or orientation of enamel cracks.

In this in vitro experimental study, 64 extracted human premolars were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 16): with or without an archwire during debonding, and adhesive removal using either a high-speed (turbine) or a low-speed (angle) tungsten carbide bur. Stereomicroscopic images were taken before bonding and after adhesive removal to assess the number, length, and direction of enamel cracks. Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) scores were also recorded. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests, ANOVA, and Chi-square tests (α = 0.05).

All groups exhibited a statistically significant increase in both the number and length of enamel cracks following bracket debonding and adhesive removal (p < 0.001). However, no significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of the increase in crack length (p = 0.166), crack number (p = 0.628), or ARI scores (p = 0.89).

While orthodontic bracket debonding and adhesive removal significantly increase enamel cracking, the presence of an archwire and the type of tungsten carbide bur do not seem to affect the severity or pattern of crack formation. Therefore, clinical emphasis should be placed on careful debonding techniques and appropriate final polishing to minimize enamel damage.