Abstract
This doctoral thesis is presented in a hybrid format, with publishable materials structured as distinct chapters.
Chapter 1 - General introduction
This brief chapter provides the background and rationale for this doctoral thesis.
Chapter 2 - Effects of residual adhesive debonding methods on human enamel: a scoping review
This scoping review synthesises existing evidence on the effects of orthodontic debonding methods on human enamel, including surface topography, volume, and colour. Key highlights include the lack of consensus on an optimal method for residual adhesive removal and the identification of major knowledge gaps in the field of debonding research.
Chapter 3 - A national survey of debonding methods used by orthodontists in New Zealand
A national survey identified considerable variation in the debonding methods used by New Zealand orthodontists. The results provide a foundation for the following chapter, which evaluates the appropriateness of commonly used debonding methods by assessing their impact on enamel.
Chapter 4 - Nano- and micro-scale evaluation of human enamel following different debonding methods
An in vitro investigation comparing the effects of six different debonding methods on enamel surface roughness, enamel volume loss, enamel colour change, and debonding time. The results highlight that different debonding methods vary in their impact on human enamel, and a two-step debonding method is proposed.
Chapter 5 - Summary
This chapter provides a general commentary linking the preceding chapters and outlines ideas for future research in the field of orthodontic debonding.