The right prep work goes a long way to ensure a strong bond to non-enamel surfaces Oversight. It's a common misconception that when an intraoral microetcher is used to mechanically prepare substrates, prophying isn't necessary because the abrasive powder will remove any bulk material. Th is couldn't be further from the truth, especially when there's soft material present on the tooth. All debris must be removed before using a microetcher to allow the blast media to reach the substrate itself. Any soft material present will absorb much of the aluminum oxide powder, inhibiting the mechanical preparation that's so crucial to clinically acceptable bond strength. (Th is idea is also understood in a different field by auto-body repair shops. When preparing the sheet metal of a car to be painted, technicians will not try to sandblast grease from the panels because the sand will be absorbed into the grease and the underlying metal will remain unprepped.) Overcomplication. It's no secret that a clean surface free of debris, mature pellicle or plaque will generate superior bond strength compared with a contaminated surface. Orthodontic bonding is complicated in and of itself; blatantly ignoring this simple reality will only make the operator's job more difficult. A thorough prophylaxis achieved by using a rubber-cup rotary instrument or bristle brush is the foundation for successful bonding. Excessive oral fluids or bleeding may occur from this process if clinicians are not careful when cleaning next to the soft tissue margins. Caution, precision and attention to detail are imperative when using a prophylaxis technique. A small-diameter rubber cup provides the most precise pumice application, resulting in less nuisance oral fluids. Because of the risk of increased oral fluids, some clinicians will forgo prophying. Although possible contamination is reduced, this practice does not address the bulk material present on the tooth-which ultimately reduces the likelihood of a successful long-term bond. There are numerous pumices in the dental field appropriate as a fi nal step for post-restoration or cleaning orthotown.com \\ NOVEMBER 2017 33http://www.orthotown.com