Diode laser debonding of ceramic brackets

Introduction: Our objective was to investigate the effectiveness of debonding ceramic brackets with a diode laser. Methods: Two types of ceramic brackets (monocrystalline and polycrystalline) were bonded to bovine maxillary central incisors. The diode laser was applied to brackets in the experimental groups for 3 seconds. Shear bond strength and thermal effects on the pulp chamber were assessed at 2 laser energy levels: 2 and 5 W per square centimeter. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine significant differences in shear bond strength values. Results: The diode laser was ineffective with polycrystalline brackets and effective with monocrystalline brackets in significantly (P < 0.05) lowering the shear bond strength. There were no significant adhesive remnant index score differences between any groups tested. Conclusions: Diode laser use significantly decreased the debonding force required for monocrystalline brackets without increasing the pulp chamber temperature significantly. Diode lasers did not significantly decrease the debonding force required for polycrystalline brackets. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2010;138:458-62)