Optical coherence tomography for debonding evaluation: an in-vitro qualitative study.

Introduction The purpose of this research was to demonstrate the potential of the optical coherence tomography technique on the evaluation of changes and damages in the enamel structure caused by debonding and cleanup procedures. Methods Twin metal and ceramic brackets were bonded to the labial enamel surfaces of 120 incisors; the brackets were debonded 24 hours later. The anterior surfaces of the teeth were scanned, and optical coherence tomography images were captured in 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional modes before and after debonding and cleanup. A commercial spectral domain optical coherence tomography system with a 5-μm axial spatial resolution was used. The system is based on the Michelson interferometer setup. It is connected to a preconfigured personal computer, and the images are captured with a scanner probe that controls the light beam position at the sample. A total of 960 images were evaluated. Results The analysis of the 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional images obtained with optical coherence tomography allows observation and evaluation of adhesive remnants, enamel damage, and superficial aspects of enamel from different methods of adhesive remnant removal. The 2-dimensional optical coherence tomography analysis allows in-depth observation of the adhesive remnant layer. Conclusions Optical coherence tomography can be a powerful tool for academic and clinical applications for the evaluation of debonding procedures.