One of the major advantages of fluoride (F)-containing bonding materials for orthodontic brackets is that they can release F to the surrounding tooth structure and saliva and thereby inhibit dental caries. Objectives: The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the degree of demineralization of enamel and the effect on plaque microflora after bonding orthodontic bands with a F-containing bonding material in vivo. Material and methods: Fifteen children and adolescents aged 10-15 yrs, having one or two pairs of homologous premolars in the upper and/or lower jaw (altogether 24 pairs) to be removed for orthodontic reasons, participated. Metallic bands were attached to the teeth using a F-containing bonding material (Super-Bond-F, SunMedical, Japan) on one side and a F-free material (Super-Bond) on the other. A space for plaque accumulation was created on the buccal side. After 4 weeks, the subjects returned to the clinic for extraction, after which the degree of demineralization of enamel was analysed by quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF). Prior to extraction, a plaque sample was collected under the band for determination of number of mutans streptococci (MS) in relation to the total number of microorganisms. Results: The F-containing bonding material resulted in a lower degree of demineralization compared to the non-F-containing material, both with respect to maximum and average difference in fluorescence radiance (p<0.01 and p<0.05); the average change between the two materials was 7.2%. Lower numbers of MS were found for the teeth bonded with the F-containing material compared with the non-F-containing material (ns). Conclusion: The new F-containing bonding material Super-Bond-F may be well suited for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed applicances in order to reduce the risk of caries in enamel.

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