Cariostatic effect of glass ionomer retained orthodontic appliances. An in vivo study

The cariostatic effect of a fluoride releasing bonding agent was investigated and compared with a conventional composite based material in connection with bonding of orthodontic brackets in 22 homologous pairs of premolars. All subjects had malocclusions requiring orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances and extraction of at least two premolars. 6-13 weeks prior to extraction, orthodontic brackets were bonded to the labial surfaces of the extraction teeth with either a glass ionomer cement or a bis-GMA resin. Initially, the children were instructed in tooth brushing and the regular use of fluoride. After extraction, the bonded teeth were stained and evaluated in a stereo-microscope regarding the incidence and extension of initial enamel demineralisation. The zone of intact enamel adjacent to the bracket base and bonding material was measured in a stereo-microscope at four predetermined locations with the aid of an electronic ruler and scored according to four categories. The incidence of enamel demineralisation adjacent to glass ionomer bonded and composite bonded brackets was 68% and 77% respectively. In 12 pairs of premolars however, the demineralisation appeared to a lesser extent on the enamel around the brackets was generally wider when glass ionomer cement was used compared to the composite resin. These differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05) mesially and distally, but non-significant cervically and incisally. The results indicate that bonding with glass ionomer cement may have a local cariostatic effect in children requiring fixed orthodontic appliances.