Comparison of the bond strength of stainless steel orthodontic brackets bonded to crown porcelains.

Background: The bond strengths and mode of failure of stainless steel orthodontic brackets bonded to the newer all-ceramic crown systems has not been fully investigated.

Objectives: To compare the shear-peel bond strengths and modes of failure of stainless steel Begg orthodontic brackets bonded to all-ceramic crown systems (Finesse, Empress II) and a conventional feldsphatic crown porcelain (Vita Omega 900).

Methods: Fifteen flat-surface discs of three crown porcelains (Finesse, Vita Omega 900, Empress II) were made and mounted in acrylic moulds.

The effect of home bleaching agents on the surface roughness of tooth-colored restoratives with time.

This study evaluated the effects of home bleaching agents on the surface roughness of composite restoratives. Two home bleaching gels (10% and 15% carbamide peroxide, Opalescence) and five different tooth-colored restorative materials from the same manufacturer (3M-ESPE) were selected. They included microfill (Filtek A110 [FO]), flowable (Filtek Flow [FF]), polyacid-acid modified (F2000 [FT]) and minifill (Z100 [ZO]; Filtek Z250 [ZT]) composites.

Effects of in-office bleaching products on surface finish of tooth-colored restorations.

A number of "high power" in-office bleaching products have recently been re-introduced into the market. The use of such strong oxidizing agents has raised questions as to possible adverse effects on tooth structure and restorative materials. This study evaluated the effects of 35% carbamide peroxide (Opalescence Quick) and 35% hydrogen peroxide (Opalescence Xtra) on the surface finish of four tooth-colored restorative materials (Spectrum TPH, Dyract AP, Reactmer and Fuji II LC).