Use of nano-hydroxyapatite serum and different finishing/polishing techniques to reduce enamel staining of debonding after orthodontic treatment

Purpose The aim of this study was to assess the effect of nano-hydroxyapatite serum and different finishing, polishing techniques on color alterations of enamel caused by debonding procedures after comprehensive orthodontic treatment by use of a spectrophotometer. Methods This randomized clinical trial recruited 20 participants with previous non-extraction orthodontic treatment and acceptable hygiene to evaluate enamel staining after orthodontic debonding. The usage of a carbide bur alone, as the conventional method, and the combination use of carbide burs and Sof-Lex discs (3M™ ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA) were compared to each other followed by 10 days application of nano-hydroxyapatite after debonding. Then the enamel staining was evaluated by a reflectance spectrophotometer in three periods: immediately, and 2 and 4 months after debonding. Results The comparison of the groups showed a significant interaction between Sof-Lex groups and the control side after the first interval of the study ( p = 0.042). Application of nano-hydroxyapatite demonstrated no significant difference in color parameters between upper and lower arches of the participants at all intervals of this study ( p > 0.05). The mean total color change (ΔE) in all groups and between all intervals had been clinically perceptible (ΔE > 3.3). Conclusions The applied concentrations of nano-hydroxyapatite had no significant effect in reducing tooth color changes after debonding in orthodontic treatment. Sof-Lex discs can significantly reduce tooth color changes in a short time.