Clinician preferences for orthodontic bracket bonding materials: a quantitative analysis

Abstract Background and objectives: Many orthodontic bracket-bonding materials are available for clinical use. The current study aimed to assess the preferences and factors contributing to the clinical choice of bracket bonding material. Methods: Eight bracket bonding materials were trialled by 15 participants. The handling properties and overall ease of use of each material were scored by the participants on a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The participants also responded to a questionnaire regarding the use and perceptions of resin-modified glass ionomer cements (RMGICs) for bracket bonding. A quantitative analysis was conducted on the responses to the questionnaire. Results: Of all materials trialled, there was a consistent preference for the handling of resin composite (RC) materials. Fuji® II LC was the highest rated RMGIC material and was considered similar to RC materials for ease of handling. Conclusions: Fuji® II LC may be a suitable alternative to RC materials for orthodontic bracket bonding. Further research is required to assess and produce bonding materials possessing anti-cariogenic properties along with comparable handling properties to bracket bonding materials that are currently preferred.