EFFECT OF REMINERALIZING AGENTS WITH/WITHOUT LASER IRRADIATION ON ENAMEL PROPERTIES AND SHEAR BOND STRENGTH OF ORTHODONTIC BRACKETS

Introduction: Remineralizing agents can be used for treating WSL. This study aimed at assessing the effect of two remineralizing agents with/ without laser irradiation. Materials and methods: The study evaluated 72 premolars in 6 groups (n=12) (I) sound enamel, (II) demineralized enamel, (III) Fluoride, (IV) Fluoride with laser, (V) CPPA-CP, and (VI) CPP-ACP with laser. The agents were applied to enamel after their immersion in a demineralizing agent. In groups IV and VI, the laser irradiated after applying the agents. 48 premolars were divided into 4 groups (n=12; F, F/ L, C, C/ L) and their microhardness was measured. SEM and EDS were utilized to assess the formation of hydroxyapatite. Results and discussion: The SBS significantly decreased in group II (P < 0.001). This finding was similar to microhardness results. Conclusions: Remineralizing agents can significantly improve the microhardness and structural properties of demineralized enamel, similarly to that of sound enamel, with no adverse effect on SBS of orthodontic brackets.