Saudi Journal of Oral and Dental Research (SJODR)
Volume-3 | Issue-07 | 215-218
Review Article
Discoloration of Orthodontic Adhesives –A Clinician’s Review
Dr. Rathi Amey Jayant, Dr. Varghese Ashwin Thomas
Published : July 30, 2018
Abstract
Discoloration of orthodontic adhesive during the length of orthodontic
treatment and after debonding of brackets poses a difficult aesthetic situation for the
clinician and the patient. A detailed review of the causes of the discoloration from a
clinical perspective is detailed in the article. Demineralization of enamel and penetration
of resin tags, enamel cracks, surface defects are the main causes. The type of composite
used, its constituents and the curing process also affects the speed and extend of the
discoloration of the enamel. Steps the clinician can take reduce the amount of
discoloration of enamel like use of a slow speed tungsten carbide burs are explained.
Even though some discoloration of enamel is inevitable, steps can be taken to minimize
the problem to a negligible proportion.