Evaluation of a "Flash-free" Adhesive Resin for Orthodontic Bracket Bonding

Patients presenting for comprehensive orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances at the
University of Minnesota, who are willing to participate, will be included in the initial
study. Selection criteria will include full permanent dentition through the first molars,
teeth with sound, non-carious buccal enamel and no pretreatment with chemical agents such as
hydrogen peroxide, and no previous orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances. The patients
will have their maxillary incisors, canines, and premolars bonded with ceramic orthodontic
brackets pre-coated with a "flash-free" adhesive resin (Clarity Advanced Brackets APC
flash-free, 3M Unitek, Monrovia, CA, USA) on one side and a conventional adhesive resin
(Clarity Advanced Brackets APC II, 3M Unitek) on the other side. The side allocation and
order of bonding will be randomized for each patient.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Full permanent dentition including incisors, canines, premolars, and first molars

- Teeth with sound, non-carious buccal enamel and no pretreatment with chemical agents
such as hydrogen peroxide

- No previous orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances

Exclusion Criteria:

- Mental/emotional/developmental disability

- Cleft lip and/or palate, craniofacial anomaly, or syndrome

- Obvious oral hygiene issues such as excessive plaque accumulation, gingivitis, and/or
pre-existing white spot lesions

- Prosthodontic or restored substrate extending on the labial surface of maxillary teeth

- Known allergies to any acrylates contained in the study materials