When checking for remaining bond after removal, what indicates that bond is still present?

The presence of grey marks is a strong indicator that residual bond material remains after the removal process. When bonding agents are used in dentistry, they often leave a visual or tactile trace when not completely removed. Grey marks typically indicate that some bonding material is still adhered to the tooth surface, as the bond can take on a different coloration compared to the natural tooth enamel or other restorative materials.

While other indicators may suggest different conditions of the bond or bracket, grey marks directly point to leftover bonding material. For example, the presence of white marks may not necessarily indicate the same issue; they could be due to a variety of factors unrelated to bonding residue. Similarly, roughness felt with the explorer or loose brackets could suggest a different problem altogether, such as surface irregularities or inadequate bonding rather than residual material specifically. Thus, identifying grey marks as a sign of remaining bond is crucial for ensuring a complete and clean removal of bonding material, which supports a healthy oral environment and prepares the tooth for any further treatments or restorations.