Correlation of enamel surface roughness, hardness, and demineralization following the use of orthodontic brackets

Abstract Objective This study aimed to assess the correlation among altered enamel surface roughness, micro-hardness, and demineralization depth follwing the use of orthodontic brackets. Materials and methods Data of enamel surface roughness, micro-hardness, and demineralization depth were retrieved from two previous studies (each included 99 extracted human premolar teeth). Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between variables. Results There was a non- significant weak positive correlation between enamel surface roughness and demineralization depth (r = + 0.151, P = 0.134). A significantly moderate negative correlation was observed between enamel surface micro-hardness and demineralization depth (r = − 0.504, P < 0.001). In addition, a significantly weak negative correlation was observed between the enamel surface roughness and micro-hardness (r = − 0.289, P = 0.004). Conclusion Enamel surface properties could affect each other and influence demineralization penetration. Enamel surface roughness is inversely correlated with hardness, and its hardness is inversely correlated with the demineralization depth. Clinical relevance: Dental enamel demineralization is multifactorial; there is limited data regarding enamel surface characteristics contribution its demineralization. This paper focuses on evaluating the correlation between altered enamel surface roughness, micro-hardness, and demineralization depth following the use of orthodontic brackets; thus, the gained data will offer a valuable information for current orthodontic practice (toward a more preventive practice), future research, and material improvement.