Comparison of a 3-step Bonding System (Transbond™ XT) and a 2-step System (GC Ortho Connect™) on Demineralization Around Maxillary Orthodontic Brackets

Overview

White spot lesions (WSLs) are one of the most common adverse effects of fixed orthodontic treatments, affecting up to 97% of patients treated with labial appliances. These early enamel demineralizations, caused by microleakage between enamel and adhesive, can appear as early as the fourth week of treatment. They not only pose aesthetic concerns but also increase the risk of bracket failure. This randomized split-mouth clinical trial compares two bonding systems : the traditional three-step system (Transbond™ XT) and the simplified two-step system (GC Ortho Connect™) to assess their impact on enamel demineralization around orthodontic brackets. The degree of demineralization will be measured using the Enamel Decalcification Index (EDI) based on intraoral photographs and confirmed with a fluorescence camera (C50 Acteon). The aim of the study is to determine whether the simplified bonding protocol can reduce clinical time and saliva contamination risk without increasing enamel demineralization, thus offering a potentially more efficient and conservative approach for orthodontic bonding procedures.

Introduction: White spot lesions (WSLs) (localized, non-cavitated enamel demineralizations) represent one of the most frequent side effects of fixed orthodontic treatments. Clinically visible in up to 97% of patients undergoing labial orthodontic therapy, these lesions can emerge as early as the fourth week of treatment. They result from microleakage at the adhesive enamel interface, which facilitates bacterial colonization and acid production. Beyond their aesthetic impact, WSLs can compromise bracket adhesion and increase the risk of failure Fixed orthodontic appliances modify the oral ecosystem, favoring plaque accumulation and hindering efficient brushing, particularly around complex elements such as ligatures, brackets, and springs. Consequently, WSLs constitute a significant clinical concern for both orthodontists and dental surgeons, as these lesions can persist five years after treatment completion. Bonding Systems Under Investigation : The conventional bonding protocol, Transbond™ XT, involves three steps: etching, primer application, and adhesive placement. Conversely, the GC Ortho Connect™ system integrates the primer directly into the adhesive, simplifying the bonding procedure to a single step following orthophosphoric acid etching. This reduced protocol minimizes saliva exposure time and enhances bonding strength. Furthermore, GC Ortho Connect™ contains functional monomers such as 10-MDP (10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate), which chemically interacts with hydroxyapatite, forming a stable bond resistant to moisture. While some studies suggest this system reduces the risk of contamination and shortens chairside time, others report slightly deeper and larger lesions compared to the conventional three-step approach. Evidence remains contradictory, with several in vitro studies showing no significant difference in enamel quality between the two bonding systems. Research Hypothesis and Objectives : This clinical trial aims to determine whether a significant difference exists in enamel demineralization between a three-step (Transbond™ XT) and a two-step (GC Ortho Connect™) bonding system. \- Primary Objective: Compare the degree of enamel demineralization around orthodontic brackets at debonding between the two systems using intraoral photographs (Enamel Decalcification Index, EDI) and fluorescence imaging (C50 Acteon camera). * Secondary Objectives: * Assess enamel demineralization before bonding, at 6 months, and at 12 months. * Compare bracket failure rates throughout treatment. * Evaluate plaque accumulation using the Silness and Löe plaque index. Methodology : A monocentric randomized split-mouth trial will be conducted at the Montpellier Dental Care Center. Each patient will serve as their own control: One hemi-arch (control) bonded with Transbond™ XT (3-step system). The opposite hemi-arch (experimental) bonded with GC Ortho Connect™ (2-step system). Randomization will be stratified by gender and brushing hand dominance to reduce confounding factors. Inclusion criteria target minors aged 10-16 years requiring fixed labial metallic appliances. The split-mouth design minimizes interindividual variability (e.g., enamel quality, saliva composition, hygiene habits) and increases statistical power. Additionally, enamel demineralization assessment will be conducted by a blinded examiner to ensure unbiased evaluation. Conclusion : This study proposes an innovative clinical comparison between two orthodontic bonding systems to assess their effects on enamel demineralization. If the simplified GC Ortho Connect™ system demonstrates similar or superior outcomes to the conventional Transbond™ XT, it could represent a time-saving, contamination-resistant, and more conservative alternative for orthodontic bonding procedures ultimately improving patient safety and clinical efficiency.