[Effect of different enamel structures on bonding of glass ionomer cements].

In the present study, the adhesive strength of glass-ionomer cement (GIC) for bracket bonding is analysed in relation to the surface characteristics of the enamel. The bonding of brackets to the enamel of impacted teeth as well as erupted teeth of adolescents and adults is determined in shear force experiments. The results of our investigation shows that GIC attaches to adult enamel to a significantly better extent than to the teeth of adolescents. The poorest values were shown in impacted teeth. It is shown with reference to scanning electron micrograms that surface lesions occur especially frequently in use of conventional etching technique on enamel in adults after debonding the bracket. GIC thus appears to be a promising alternative material for bracket fixation which does not damage the enamel, especially in adult orthodontics. In view of the result, its suitability should be checked in clinical studies.