OBJECTIVETo evaluate the operation time and clinical effect of three types of materials (i.e., total-etching adhesive, self-etching adhesive, resin-modified glass ionomer cement) that are used to bond removable thermoplastic appliances.

METHODSThirty malocclusion patients (156 attachments) with removable thermoplastic appliances were randomly divided into three groups, with 10 individuals each. Attachments of groups A and B were bonded using 3M Adper Single Bond 2 and 3M Adper Easy One, respectively; both adhesives utilized 3M Z350 nano composite resin. Attachments of group C was directly bonded using GC Fuji Ortho LC. The operation time of each attachment was recorded. Failure rates of adhesion were evaluated during adhesion, 1 month after treatment, and 6 months after treatment.

RESULTSThe operation time of group C was shorter than those of groups A and B (P<0.01). Significant difference of adhesion failure rates was not found among the three groups (P>0.05). No significant difference of adhesion failure rates was also observed in different times of the same group (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONThe attachment stability of the three types of materials achieved satisfactory effects. However, the operation method of resin-modified glass ionomer cement is more concise and suitable for clinical promotion.