Effect of argon laser curing on the shear bond strength of metal brackets bonded with light-cured glass ionomer cement

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the shear bond strength and debonding characteristics of glass ionomer cement cured with an argon laser. Methods: Thirty extracted first premolars were divided into 2 groups of 15. The teeth were cleaned and mounted in resin, and metal brackets were bonded with glass ionomer cement. In the control group, the bond was cured with a halogen light for 40 seconds (20 seconds mesial and 20 seconds distal). In the test group, the specimens were cured with an argon laser for 5 seconds. Brackets were debonded in shear; bond strength was measured, and the adhesive remnant index was scored. Results: The difference in mean shear bond strength was not statistically significant between groups when compared with a t test. More adhesive remained on the enamel surface in the laser group than in the control group. Conclusions: Argon laser curing produces bond strengths equivalent to those obtained with traditional light curing in much less time, but it leaves more adhesive on the tooth surface.