Mode to Secure Self-ligating Brackets During Recycling

Abstract

Trapping of the abrasive particles between the doors of self-ligating brackets (SLBs) is a commonly encountered problem during the recycling of debonded brackets with the sandblasting method. Moreover, the pressure exerted during this process often displaces the bracket from the bracket holder. To address these issues, the present article describes a simple clinical tip to secure the SLBs during the recycling process.

Introduction

Replacing the debonded self-ligating brackets (SLBs) with a new one would invariably increase the cost of orthodontic treatment. To solve this problem, recycling the debonded brackets is commonly practised. ¹ Although various methods are described in the literature, recycling the bracket mesh with the sandblasting method using 90 µm aluminum oxide particle air-abrasion gives clinically acceptable shear bond strength. ² Generally, while recycling, the brackets are held in position with the bracket holder and the tip of the air-abrasion machine is positioned close to the bracket mesh. The pressure exerted during sandblasting often dislodges the bracket from the bracket holder. Moreover, the major issue encountered with air abrasion is the entrapment of the abrasive particles between the doors of SLBs creating issues while closing and opening. These abrasive particles might even increase the surface roughness on the bracket-archwire interface. Hence, we recommend a simple clinical tip to secure the SLBs from slippage and air abrasion particle entrapment.

Procedure

• Take the debonded SLBs which are planned for recycling, and position them onto the 0.021” × 0.025” Stainless Steel (SS) straight wire and secure them by closing the doors to prevent slippage (Figure 1).

• Later, mix a ½ peanut size vinyl polysiloxane (putty) and cover the whole SLBs, except the mesh area ensuring no seepage of air abrasion particles (Figure 2).

• Use a straight probe to remove the putty once the sandblasting procedure is done (Figure 3). Open the doors of SLBs, air dry them with a three-way syringe and bond the recycled brackets in a regular conventional manner.

Figure 1.

Secured Debonded SLBs Onto the 0.021” × 0.025” SS Straight Wire.

Figure 2.

Putty Covered on the Face Side of SLBs.

Figure 3.

Removal of Putty from the SLBs with a Straight Probe.

Uses

• Securing the SLBs to the SS straight wire ensures no slippage due to force exerted during the sandblasting procedure.

• Coverage of the bracket face with putty ensures no seepage of air abrasion particles.

• No mechanical issues while closing and opening the doors due to entrapment of air abrasion particles.

• No friction/micro-roughness at the archwire slot, as air abrasion particles do not penetrate the bracket face.

• Multiple brackets can be recycled with ease.

Conclusion

The present clinical tip ensures a secured easy mode for recycling the debonded SLBs eliminating the pitfalls like slippage and door play issues.