Comparison of Shear Bond Strengths of Recycled Brackets Using Various Methodologies – An in Vitro Study

Introduction: Recycling of debonded orthodontic brackets is often required in clinical practice, but the method used may influence bond strength. This study aimed to compare the shear bond strength of brackets recycled using different techniques. Materials and Methods: One hundred extracted premolars and 100 metal brackets (0.022” × 0.028”) were divided into five groups (n=20). Group 1 served as control for primary bond strength. Brackets in groups 2–5 were debonded, stored in artificial saliva for 24 hours, recycled using direct flaming, ultrasonic cleaning, slow-speed carbide bur, or sandblasting, and then rebonded. Shear bond strength was measured using a Universal Testing Machine, and values were recorded in megapascals (MPa). Results: The control group demonstrated the highest bond strength. Among recycled brackets, sandblasting showed the highest shear bond strength, followed by slow-speed carbide bur, direct flaming, and ultrasonic cleaning. Conclusion: Sandblasting proved to be the most efficient and satisfactory method for recycling orthodontic brackets, providing higher bond strength compared with other methods