Tribological Properties of Dental Enamel Before and After Orthodontic Bracket Bonding-Debonding by Nano-Scratch Test

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of bracket bonding-debonding on the tribological properties of human tooth enamel, when two different adhesives are applied. The nano-scratch experiment was performed on the enamel at untreated and under the bracket regions to obtain wear resistance, scratch hardness and friction coefficient. The results indicated that the tribological properties of the enamel vary significantly after bracket bonding-debonding. However, no significant difference exists between the effects of bracket bonding by the nano-composite and the composite adhesives on the tribological properties. Therefore, considering the mechanical and physical properties of the nano-composite adhesive, its bond strength for orthodontic bracket bonding and the influences on the enamel after removing the bracket, the use of nano-composite adhesive is suitable for orthodontic treatments.