OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the shear bond strength of metallic brackets using the self-etching system after its activation and storage for 2, 5 and 9 day periods. METHODS: A total of 64 bovine teeth were divided in four groups and prepared to receive the brackets. Initially, seven self-etching primer blisters were activated and used to bond the brackets of group I. The blisters were store at a constant temperature of 4ºC for 2, 5 and 9 days and used to bond the brackets of groups II, III and IV, respectively. RESULTS: No statistic difference was found in shear bond strength comparing groups I, II and III. However, a significant difference was found in group IV. CONCLUSION: The shear bond strength seems not to be affected by activation and storage of the self-etching primer for a 5 day period. More studies are necessary to evaluate other characteristics of the material after its activation and storage for long periods of time.
Shear bond strength; Self-etching system; Bovine enamel; Bond
