Bonded Molar Tubes: A Survey of their use by Specialist Orthodontists

Abstract

Objective

To investigate the use of bonded molar tubes (BMTs) by specialist orthodontists.

Design

Prospective postal questionnaire.

Setting

Ireland.

Participants

Registered members of the Orthodontic Society of Ireland.

Method

A questionnaire was posted to registered members of the Orthodontic Society of Ireland. It investigated demographics, pattern of use, reasons for use and techniques for placement of BMTs.

Results

A 74% response rate was obtained. In more than 80% of cases, BMTs were used on first and second permanent molars by 52% and 33% of orthodontists respectively. BMT usage was adopted by 97% of respondents in the previous decade. Direct bonding was used by all for BMT placement. Etch times for molars, compared to other teeth, increased from 15 to 30 seconds by 51% of orthodontists. Of the respondents, 97% used light-cured adhesives and 17% used self-etching primers. Molar tube holders were preferred by 54% for placement. Only with a history of epilepsy, were bands preferred to BMTs. BMTs were regarded as more cost-effective than molar bands by 66% of responding clinicians.

Conclusions

Specialist orthodontists preferred BMTs to bands on first permenent molars. Direct bonding was favoured using a 30-second etch, a light-cured primer and adhesive with specialized molar tube holders. BMTs were perceived to be more cost-effective than molar bands.