The Call for Standardization of Shear Bond Strength Testing Protocols in Orthodontics

Abstract

Purpose The shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets is an important factor in imparting desired treatment as repeated breakages during treatment not only delay its completion but also affect the quality of treatment. Thus, the aim of this review is to analyze the in vitro studies related to bond strength testing and to identify experimental conditions that are not standardized while performing in vitro studies. Materials and Method The total of 580 studies were searched, and 84 studies were accepted for review as per inclusion criteria. The 12 experimental conditions were analyzed, and it was found that none of the studies described all the conditions listed. Results There is no uniformity in parameters guidelines such as storing media, temperature, crosshead speed, type of testing method, and testing machine used in studies. None of the studies considered all reviewed conditions in their study design. Conclusion There is a need to frame proper recommendations for the testing protocols to be followed for in vitro bond strength studies so that baseline data as a reference will allow the intercomparison of results among studies and to reach any conclusion.