INTRODUCTION: To achieve the correct debonding technique, it's essential the appropriate instruments selection to remove the bracket and the remaining resin. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the enamel surface in a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) after the utilization of three methods for removing the remaining resin after debonding the bracket. METHODS: Eighteen bovine incisors were selected and divided into three groups (A, B and C) containing six teeth each. Before the bracket bonding, teeth's impression were made with addition silicon and duplicated in epoxy resin, in order to register the enamel characteristics, composing the Control Group. The remaining resin removal methods were: Group A - heavy and medium granulation Soflex, Group B - low-rotation Carbide bur, Group C - high-speed Carbide bur. Soflex polishing, with fine and ultra fine granulation in group A, rubber tips in the groups B and C, and polishing paste on all groups. After the utilization of each step on the resin removing and polish, new impressions were made, duplicated and evaluated in SEM. Then the characteristics of the initial enamel (Group controls) were compared with the aspect of the enamel after the stages of resin removal, making it easier to evaluate the method that generates the smallest abrasion to the enamel. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The remaining resin removal with low-rotation tungsten Carbide bur, the polishing with rubber tips and final polish with paste to polish the enamel is the procedure that causes minor damage to the enamel.
Dental enamel; Orthodontic brackets; Dental debonding
