Effect of enamel bleaching on the bonding strength of orthodontic brackets.

Various whitening/bleaching systems have been introduced on the market, including an over-the-counter external bleaching material, containing carbamide peroxide. It has been suggested that the process might alter the enamel surface structure in a manner similar to acid etching. Orthodontists are interested in determining whether the process will alter the adhesive characteristics of orthodontic bonding systems. The results of this study indicate that the use of 10% carbamide peroxide did not result in significant changes in the shear debonding strength of orthodontic brackets.