Post-Debonding Finishing in Orthodontics

This study investigates clinical approaches to orthodontic debonding and post-debonding finishing, focusing on enamel preservation. An observational epidemiological survey was conducted among dental professionals to assess commonly used techniques, instruments, and complications. Results highlight variability in clinical protocols, with mechanical methods being the most widely adopted. The study emphasizes the importance of minimally invasive strategies to reduce enamel damage and improve patient outcomes.

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Key information

Conditions

Caries Enamel Lesions

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Observational

Primary location

Sapienza università di Roma

Roma, RM, 00161, Italy

Location status: Recruiting

Location contact

Fabrizio Guerra

CONTACT

[email protected]

3283150627

About this study

This study explores orthodontic debonding and post-debonding finishing procedures, with particular emphasis on their impact on enamel integrity and long-term oral health. The study is an observational epidemiological investigation aimed at identifying current clinical practices, materials, and associated complications.

The research was conducted using an online questionnaire developed using Google Forms. The survey consisted of 23 questions (19 multiple-choice and 4 open-ended) and was distributed to dental professionals involved in orthodontic practice. Participants included orthodontists, general dentists with orthodontic experience, and orthodontic residents.

The questionnaire was structured into four sections: demographic and professional data, instruments and techniques used for debonding and polishing, clinical complications observed, and post-treatment management strategies. Inclusion criteria required professional involvement in orthodontic procedures and informed consent, while non-relevant dental professionals were excluded.

Data were anonymized and analyzed using spreadsheet software.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

Professional Background: Must be a dental professional with specific clinical knowledge and practical skills required to perform orthodontic therapies.
Specialization: Eligible participants must fall into one of the following categories: Orthodontist (Specialist), General Dentist with demonstrated clinical competence in orthodontics, Resident/Post-graduate student specializing in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.

Exclusion criteria

Non-Orthodontic Professionals: Dental professionals who do not belong to the categories mentioned above are excluded, even if they work within the dental field.
Lack of Specific Competence: Practitioners who do not possess the necessary clinical expertise to perform orthodontic debonding and finishing procedures.
Incomplete Participation: Failure to provide informed consent or complete the mandatory sections of the epidemiological survey.

Treatment and study plan

Primary outcomes

Prevalence and Type of Iatrogenic Enamel Damage Post-Orthodontic Debonding

Time frame: At the completion of the orthodontic treatment (immediate post-debonding phase).

Evaluation of the frequency and nature of enamel alterations (e.g., fractures, scratches, or surface roughness) observed by practitioners following the removal of orthodontic brackets and residual resin. This measure assesses the clinical impact of different debonding and finishing protocols on enamel integrity. Higher scores indicate a worse outcome (higher frequency of iatrogenic damage)
Frequency of Patient-Reported Dental Sensitivity and Pain

Time frame: From the start of the debonding procedure up to the first follow-up visit (typically within a few weeks).

Assessment of the incidence of hypersensitivity (to thermal or tactile stimuli) and discomfort/pain reported by patients during or immediately after the debonding and finishing procedures.

Study contacts

Contact information is provided by the study sponsor or research team.

Fabrizio Guerra

CONTACT

[email protected]

3283150627

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

University of Roma La Sapienza

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Post-Debonding Finishing: Analysis of Clinical Approaches for Maintaining Enamel Health

Important dates

Study start: 2024
Primary completion: 2026
Study completion: 2026
First posted: Apr 16, 2026
Registry last updated: Apr 20, 2026

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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