The Effect of Recommended Mouthwashes on the Shear Bond Strength of Orthodontic Brackets During the Covid-19 Pandemic: An In Vitro Study

This study aimed to assess the impact of recommended mouthwashes (chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide, and povidone-iodine) used during the COVID-19 pandemic on the shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets.

A total of 52 human premolar teeth were divided into 4 groups (N=13) consisting of no intervention (control group), 0.2% chlorhexidine, 1.5% hydrogen peroxide, and 0.2% povidone-iodine. Following immersion in the mouthwashes, orthodontic brackets were bonded to enamel surfaces. Then, the brackets were debonded using a universal testing machine. The specimens were evaluated with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and adhesive remnant index (ARI) score was assessed. One-way ANOVA and Tukey test were used for statistical analysis and P<0.05 was considered significant.

The SBS of the experimental groups decreased compared to the control group. The highest SBS mean value was observed in the controls and the lowest was found in the 0.2% povidone-iodine group. Significant differences in SBS values were found between the 0.2% povidone-iodine group and the 1.5% hydrogen peroxide group when compared to the control group (P=0.023, P=0.028, respectively). SEM analysis revealed similar characteristics among the groups, with a closer resemblance between the chlorhexidine and control groups. Additionally, these groups exhibited greater etching depth compared to the other groups.

Our findings highlight the importance of careful selection and application of mouthwashes in orthodontic procedures. While 1.5% hydrogen peroxide and 0.2% povidone-iodine may have some impact on bond strength, their use can still be considered acceptable within defined limits.