Effect of CO2 Laser-Assisted Titanium Tetra-fluoride on Demineralization of Enamel Around Orthodontic Brackets.

Introduction: One of the clinical problems following orthodontic treatment is white spot lesions around orthodontic brackets due to enamel demineralization. Confronting enamel demineralization during fixed treatments has long been a challenge for orthodontists. The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of CO2 laser and Titanium Tetra-fluoride (TiF4) application on the prevention of enamel demineralization around orthodontic brackets. Methods: Eighty permanent premolars were selected and bonded with brackets. They were randomly divided into four groups (n = 20): topical titanium tetra-fluoride gel 4% (TiF4), CO2 laser (10.6 µm wavelength for 10 seconds, peak power = 291 W), fluoride + laser (F + L) and control (C). All specimens were demineralized for 10 days in a 0.2 M acetate buffer solution. The mean lesion depths were determined by using polarized light microscopy. Results: The mean depth of lesion was the highest in the C group and then decreased in the TiF4, CO2 laser, and F + L groups, respectively. The difference between all groups was significant (P < 0.05), except for the CO2 laser and F + L groups. Conclusion: The lowest amount of demineralization around the orthodontic brackets was observed in the L + F group, followed by the CO2 laser, TiF4, and control groups, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]