Bonding and debonding with a light-activated resin-modified glass-ionomer cement

Light-activated resin-modified glass-ionomer cements have been shown to be satisfactory adhesives for the direct bonding of metal brackets in selected cases. They have the advantage over composite resins in that no etching of the enamel is required, thereby preserving the integrity of the enamel prisms. Debonding of brackets carries less risk of mechanical damage to tooth structure and the long-term fluoride leach reduces the incidence of demineralisation around bracket margins. This paper describes the clinical technique for bonding metal brackets with these materials and some recommendations when debonding.