A national survey of the debonding protocols used by orthodontists in New Zealand
Abstract
Objectives
To investigate the debonding protocols used by orthodontists in New Zealand.
Materials and methods
A pilot-tested electronic questionnaire was distributed to all full members of the New Zealand Association of Orthodontists (NZAO). The survey consisted of 12 questions which collected demographic information and details of the debonding protocols practiced by the orthodontists.
Results
The response rate to the survey was 56.6% (n=60 respondents). Most NZ orthodontists (80.0%, n=48) preferred the use of debonding pliers to remove orthodontic brackets. A total of 23 different methods were identified for the subsequent removal of residual adhesive of which a low-speed tungsten carbide bur was the most popular tool (83.3%, n=50). The majority of the NZ orthodontists (96.7%, n=58) performed polishing after the removal of residual adhesive. About 80% (n=47) of the NZ orthodontists reported iatrogenic damage to the enamel following debonding. Almost all NZ orthodontists (98.3%, n=59) were satisfied with their debonding protocol.
Conclusion
Orthodontists in New Zealand use different debonding protocols, of which the most common was the use of debonding pliers combined with a low-speed tungsten carbide bur without irrigation, followed by additional polishing using pumice and a rubber cup. The commonly-used debonding protocol may not necessarily be the most appropriate approach based on current best evidence. Orthodontists should maintain a critical stance and consistently re-assess the literature to evaluate the appropriateness of their debonding protocol.
© 2025 TianYou Wu, Mauro Farella, Simon Guan, Richard D. Cannon, Li Mei, published by Australian Society of Orthodontists Inc.
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.