A comparative evaluation of mechanical wear of adhesives used for bonded retainers that underwent brushing for 1 hour under 36 mm of linear action, using computer-aided 3D scan-an in vitro study.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to comparatively evaluate the mechanical wear of adhesives used in bonded retainers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty mandibular acrylic teeth were included in the study that were divided into 4 different groups based upon the composite used. Each acrylic tooth was bonded with a retainer wire and composite of their respective group (Heliosit, Restofill, Tetric-N-flow, and Filtek Z350 XT). These bonded acrylic teeth were subjected to 3D scan in order to evaluate the volume and surface area of the composite. The 3D scans were recorded using MEDIT 3D scanner. After evaluating, the samples were subjected to brushing with the aid of a custom-made brushing simulator using a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste slurry. The samples were subjected to 1 hr of brushing. These samples were again subjected to 3D scans to evaluate (post-test volume and surface area) and underwent statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The results showed the Heliosit group exhibited the highest mean volume (1.76 mm) and surface area (4.81 mm) difference between the pre-test and post-test values whereas the least mean volume difference (1.10 mm) and surface area difference (3.21 mm) were seen in the Tetric-N-flow group.

CONCLUSION

All the four composites underwent change in the mean surface area and volume after being subjected to brushing, suggesting that the composites routinely used for bonding fixed bonded lingual retainers are subjected to changes due to abrasion. The Heliosit group, which showed least filler loading among the 4 composites, exhibited least resistance to wear, whereas the Tetric-N-flow group which had highest filler loading among the composites exhibited highest resistance to wear.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The most crucial phase during orthodontic treatment is the retention phase. This phase is responsible for the long-term results of the treatment. The retainers that are placed in the oral cavity are subjected to changes due to oral environment, chemical changes, and mechanical changes. These changes have a direct effect on the retainers, which tend to alter their properties. Thus, the effects of these changes are to be studied thoroughly.