Abstract
The aim of this study is to determine the bonding resistance of orthodontic brackets in accidental conditions i.e. bites from very hard materials which may occur in a normal activity. Many studies had been developed concerning the integrity of orthodontic systems and the strength of various pairs of brackets and adhesives in controlled conditions. In orthodontics many patients were returning to treatment, especially in the period immediately after the installation of orthodontic system as a result of failure of brackets. This failure is a consequence of patients’ natural habits on biting food despite medical recommendations. For this study bovine rib bone were used to simulate the human tooth and a certain pair adhesive-bracket. Pretests were developed in order to identify the behaviour of organic material and the results were satisfying. Unlike other studies in this study the shear resistance of the adhesive was analyzed using an universal testing machine with a load on the bracket. Since the study concerns with accidental detachment of the bracket the experimental parameters were set as close to the natural conditions. The results are encouraging the development of further studies on various pairs adhesive-bracket using bovine bone as human teeth simulator since its results are fitting data reported by other authors following numerical or empirical studies on human teeth. The use of bovine bone ensures the reproduction of the tests without having the care of teeth collection. Keywords: orthodontics, adhesive, bracket, shear strength