Evaluation of friction during sliding tooth movement in various bracket-arch wire combinations

Comparison of Friction Produced at Backet-Wire Interface in Monocrystalline Ceramic Brackets of 8 Different Brands: An In Vitro Study

Introduction

The esthetic during the various orthodontic treatments has led to the invention of the brackets. When different ceramic brackets and archwires are used, the different frictional forces may result in the different outputs. Hence, in the present study, we evaluated and compared the frictional resistance between eight standard monocrystalline ceramic bracket models and each of the archwires of four different alloys.

Materials and Methods

Frictional force was tested using Instron testing machine, in vitro, for eight types of monocrystalline ceramic bracket, and four types of archwires beta-titanium, NiTi, copper-nickel-titanium, and stainless steel statistical analysis were done using various tools, and significance value of <0.05 was considered.

Results

Ormco and AO (Radiance) monocrystalline ceramic brackets created lesser frictional resistance than other monocrystalline ceramic brackets. Stainless steel archwire generates lesser static friction. Beta-titanium archwire created higher static friction. A 0.017 × 0.025 inch stainless steel archwire generates lesser static friction to 0.019 × 0.025 inch TMA.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that Ormco and AO (Radiance) monocrystalline ceramic brackets, with stainless steel archwires and of size 0.017 × 0.025 inch, can generate better forces when used for the orthodontic tooth movements.

Comparative assessment of frictional forces between differently designed esthetic brackets during simulated canine retraction

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate force loss due to friction (FR) with an emphasis on esthetic brackets and their design differences during simulated canine retraction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The tested brackets were round and sharp-cornered conventional-ligating brackets and round-cornered self-ligating brackets. The tested archwires were stainless steel (0.018 × 0.025″ and 0.019 × 0.025″, and 0.018″) archwires. A total of 90 bracket-archwire combinations in 9 equally-sized groups (n = 10) were analyzed. Canine retraction was experimentally simulated in a biomechanical set-up utilizing the custom-made orthodontic measurement and simulation system (OMSS) using a NiTi coil spring that delivered a constant force of 1 N. The simulated retraction path was up to 4 mm. FR was compared among groups using the Welch t‑test. Significance level (α) was set to 0.05.

RESULTS

The round-cornered conventional-ligating bracket exhibited the least FR (28.6 ± 5.4%), while there were no significant differences in FR between the round-cornered conventional-ligating bracket and the round-cornered self-ligating bracket with 0.018″ stainless steel wires. However, the round-cornered self-ligating bracket exhibited the least FR (34.9 ± 5.1% and 39.3 ± 4.6%) with 0.018 × 0.025″ and 0.019 × 0.025″ stainless steel archwires, respectively. The sharp-cornered conventional-ligating bracket showed the highest FR of 72.4 ± 3.0% among the bracket systems tested in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

The round-cornered conventional-ligating bracket showed less FR when compared to sharp-cornered conventional-ligating bracket. Conversely, the round-cornered conventional-ligating bracket exhibited greater FR when compared to the round-cornered self-ligating bracket, with an exception with respect to the 0.018″ wire. In general, FR increased with increased wire dimension.

Self-Ligating Bracket Systems: A Comprehensive Review

Currently, ligature-free bracket technologies, including self-ligating brackets (SLBs), are all the rage in orthodontics. Self-ligating mechanisms have been shown to be more effective and less time-consuming in orthodontic treatment than traditional appliances due to their enhanced frictional properties. Crucial to the success of the multi-band/bracket method is the transmission of forces and moments from the bracket to the archwire. Advances in bracket design and ligation techniques are constantly being made to better distribute loads and increase the efficiency of leveling.

Reducing Friction in Orthodontic Brackets: A Matter of Material or Type of Ligation Selection? In-Vitro Comparative Study

(1) Background: Orthodontic appliances have changed and improved with the increasing demand for orthodontic treatment of the general population. Patients desire for shorter orthodontic treatments and for the wearing of more aesthetic devices has led to the technological development of orthodontic brackets; these were manufactured from aesthetic materials (ceramics, composite polymers) and presented different designs regarding the way archwires are ligated to the bracket. The aim of this study was to determine whether there were any differences between the static frictional forces generated by stainless steel (metallic) and polycrystalline alumina (ceramics) conventional and self-ligating brackets. (2) Methods: Static friction assessment was carried out in vitro with a universal testing machine, HV-500N-S (Schmidt Control Instruments, Hans Schmidt & Co. GmbH), intended for measuring compression and traction forces. (3) Results: The study revealed significant differences in static frictional forces at the bracket-archwire interface between the tested brackets. Stainless steel brackets produced lower static friction forces than polycrystalline alumina and self-ligating brackets generally produced lower static frictional forces than conventional brackets. The reduction of frictional forces was noticeable in the first stages of treatment, when thin, flexible orthodontic archwires (0.016” NiTi) are used. Engaged with large rectangular stainless steel archwires, (0.019 × 0.025” SS), the frictional forces produced by conventional and self-ligating metal brackets were similar, no significant differences being observed between the two types of metallic design. However, in the case of tested ceramic brackets, the results showed that the self-ligating type allows a reduction in frictional forces even in advanced stages of treatment compared to conventionally ligation. (4) Conclusions: From the perspective of an orthodontic system with low frictional forces, metal brackets are preferable to aesthetic ones, and self-ligating ceramic brackets are preferable to conventional ceramic brackets.

Effectiveness of medical coating materials in decreasing friction between orthodontic brackets and archwires

Objective

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the changes in friction between orthodontic brackets and archwires coated with aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), titanium nitride (TiN), or chromium nitride (CrN). In addition, the resistance of the coatings to intraoral conditions was evaluated.

Methods

Stainless steel canine brackets, 0.016-inch round nickel–titanium archwires, and 0.019 × 0.025-inch stainless steel archwires were coated with Al₂O₃, TiN, and CrN using radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The coated materials were examined using scanning electron microscopy, an X-ray diffractometer, atomic force microscopy, and surface profilometry. In addition, the samples were subjected to thermal cycling and in vitro brushing tests, and the effects of the simulated intraoral conditions on the coating structure were evaluated.

Results

Coating of the metal bracket as well as nickel–titanium archwire with Al₂O₃ reduced the coefficients of friction (CoFs) for the bracket–archwire combination (p < 0.01). When the bracket and stainless steel archwire were coated with Al₂O₃ and TiN, the CoFs were significantly lower (0.207 and 0.372, respectively) than that recorded when this bracket–archwire combination was left uncoated (0.552; p < 0.01). The friction, thermal, and brushing tests did not deteriorate the overall quality of the Al₂O₃ coatings; however, some small areas of peeling were evident for the TiN coatings, whereas comparatively larger areas of peeling were observed for the CrN coatings.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the CoFs for metal bracket–archwire combinations used in orthodontic treatment can be decreased by coating with Al₂O₃ and TiN thin films.

Comparison of static friction and surface topography of low friction and conventional TMA orthodontic arch wires: An in-vitro study

Background

Arch wire surface characteristics, especially surface roughness and topography, influence the coefficient of friction during sliding. The clinician should be familiar with the properties of orthodontic appliances and materials that could result in high friction to maximize the efficiency of treatment. This study aimed to compare the static friction of orthodontic arch wire materials, including a newly introduced low-friction TMA, conventional TMA, and stainless steel arch wires, using an Instron universal testing machine and to evaluate their surface topographical features using a noncontact optical profilometer.

Methods

A total of 30 arch wire specimens were used, including 10 low-friction TMA (TMA-Low), 10 conventional TMA (TMA-C), and 10 stainless steel (SS), (Ormco, Orange, CA, USA) measuring 0.016 × 0.022 in. The static frictional force of each arch wire material was measured using the universal Instron machine. The surface topography was evaluated using a noncontact profilometer machine.

Results

The static frictional resistance forces were highest in the TMA-C alloy group, and the value was statistically significant in comparison to the SS arch wire but not to the TMA-Low arch wire. The mean value of the static friction of the TMA-Low group was intermediate between the TMA-C and SS arch wires. However, this difference was statistically insignificant compared to the other two alloys. A surface roughness evaluation using a profilometer machine revealed that the highest mean of all three roughness parameters was found in the TMA-C group, followed by the TMA-Low and SS arch wires in descending order.

Conclusion

The static friction resistance forces and surface roughness values of the TMA-Low arch wire are comparable to those of TMA-C but are still considered inferior to those of the SS arch wire.

Comparison of friction of metallic and ceramic brackets during sliding mechanics after prophylaxis with sodium bicarbonate jet: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVE

An in vitro experimental study was carried out with the objective to compare the friction in aesthetic and metallic brackets after prophylaxis with sodium bicarbonate jet during sliding mechanics.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Aesthetic monocrystalline (n=24) and polycrystalline (n=24) and metallic brackets (n=24) were used. Each group of brackets was divided into two groups, as follows: the first group received prophylaxis with a bicarbonate jet, while the second group did not. An acrylic plate was attached to the base fixature of the Instron 4411 universal testing machine, simulating the retraction movement of the canine during sliding mechanics. The bracket was pulled at a speed of 0.5mm/minute over a distance of 0.5mm. The data were analysed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey test.

RESULTS

After the sodium bicarbonate jet, conventional metal brackets showed less friction (P<0.05). While the aesthetic brackets did not show significant difference in friction between the exposed and non-exposed groups with the sodium bicarbonate jet (P>0.05), the polycrystalline brackets showed greater friction when compared to the other groups of brackets.

CONCLUSIONS

It was concluded that prophylaxis with sodium bicarbonate jet did not influence the resistance to friction in aesthetic brackets; however, metal brackets showed a significant decrease in friction after prophylaxis with sodium bicarbonate jet. Our results suggest that the abrasion of the sodium bicarbonate particles can cause micromorphological changes, which may influence the friction; however, studies with scanning electron microscopy are necessary.

Comparison of frictional resistance between four types of brackets in combination with stainless steel and beta-titanium archwires

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to evaluate and compare the frictional resistance generated by four different types of brackets in combination with stainless steel (SS) and titanium molybdenum alloy (TMA) archwires.

Materials and Methods:

Maxillary premolar brackets were used in this study. These brackets were divided into eight groups comprising seven samples each. Of the eight groups, four groups were combined with SS and four groups were combined with TMA archwires. The testing was done in the presence of human saliva. The static frictional resistance was calculated for each group. One-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests were done to compare the friction generated by each group.

Results:

There was a statistically significant difference between the friction generated by the monocrystalline brackets and the other bracket groups (P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in static friction generated between self-ligating and conventionally ligated brackets. There was a statistically significant difference between the frictional resistance produced by SS and TMA wires (P = 0.02) with regard to monocrystalline ceramic brackets only.

Conclusion:

Monocrystalline ceramic brackets (Radiance) were found to generate the highest frictional resistance during sliding mechanics when compared to other brackets in combination with both SS and TMA wires. Self-ligating brackets did not show a statistically significant reduction in friction when compared to conventional ligation. There was a statistically significant difference between SS and TMA wires when used with monocrystalline brackets.

Rates of tooth movement and bone remodeling activity: Self-ligating versus conventional brackets

Background

Bracket systems have been developed with the purpose of reducing frictional resistance between the archwire and accessories. The aim of this research was to compare rates of tooth movement and regions of cellular bone modeling activity along tooth root surfaces of teeth moved with conventional vs. self-ligating brackets.

Material and Methods

The experiments were conducted in 20 male dogs. Bands were cemented in all intermediate incisors, with conventional brackets (Morelli) on the right side and hybrid self-ligating ones (T3-American Orthodontics) on the left side. A 0.019” x 0.025” stainless steel wire was inserted passively in the slot of these brackets with chain elastics (250 gf) to perform sliding mechanics. Clinical records of the orthodontic mechanics were made before and after 15 days of the tooth movement. The dental segments of the animals were prepared for light microscopy. Statistical analysis of variance and the Tukey correction with a P value at 5% were used.

Results

There were no significant differences in tooth movement rates between the two types of brackets but differences, in the bone modeling activity, suggested that tooth movement with the self-ligating brackets resulted in more tipping and less translational movement than tooth movement with the conventional brackets.

Conclusions

The rates of tooth movement were similar between the two systems. The histological evaluation of cellular bone modeling activity along tooth root surfaces showed more translation movement of teeth with the conventional brackets, and more tipping movement of teeth with self-ligating brackets.

Key words:Edgewise, histological reactions, orthodontic movement, self-ligating, brackets.

Effectiveness of low binding frictional materials: Evaluation of the binding frictional resistance of improved superelastic nickel-titanium alloy wires with different bracket combinations

Introduction:

This study aimed to evaluate the binding frictional resistance of improved superelastic nickel- titanium alloy wires (ISW) with different bracket combinations and to verify the effectiveness of low binding frictional materials by applying them in orthodontic treatment.

Materials and Methods:

Straight stainless steel wire (SSW; 0.016 × 0.022-inch) and straight ISW (0.016 × 0.022- inch) were set to each displaced bracket, and the tensile resistance load was measured. The maximum tensile resistance load was statistically compared using the Tukey test. For exemplification, we treated a typical extraction case of Angle Class I crowding malocclusion with lip protrusion using lower binding frictional materials, which were selected based on tensile test results.

Results:

The SSW and metal bracket combination had the largest maximum tensile resistance load, and the ISW and metal slot-equipped plastic bracket combination had the smallest load (P < 0.01). In a patient treated using lower binding frictional materials, the active treatment period was 9 months. Satisfactory patient results were obtained without using reinforced anchorage.

Conclusions:

Binding frictional resistance varies, depending on the archwire and bracket combination. In a multibracket appliance, selecting materials with as low a binding frictional resistance as possible may make a more effective treatment.

Orthodontic brackets friction changes after clinical use: A systematic review

Background

To evaluate the bracket-wire friction force after clinical use.

Material and Methods

A systematic search of several electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, The Cochrane Library, Lilacs and Google Scholar) without limitations regarding publication year or language, was performed. In-vitro studies analyzing the changes in friction force of orthodontic brackets before/after their clinical use were considered. Risk of Bias was assessed with Downs and Black checklist. All methodological features that could interfere in the results were specifically described.

Results

Seven studies satisfied the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. All 7 studies reported at least two groups (before and after clinical use). Friction force increased after intraoral aging in most of the studies. However, there is lack of good quality evidence in this research area.

Conclusions

Brackets present increased surface roughness after clinical use, and consequently increased coefficient of friction (COF) and Friction Force. Further studies are necessary to obtain more reliable results.

Key words:Friction, orthodontic brackets, systematic review.

Comparison of force loss due to friction of different wire sizes and materials in conventional and new self-ligating orthodontic brackets during simulated canine retraction

AIMS

The aim of this study was to compare force loss due to friction (Fr) during simulated canine retraction using different archwire dimensions and materials between conventional and new self-ligating brackets.

METHODS

The tested brackets were (1) conventional brackets (Victory series, GAC twin and FLI twin), (2) self-ligating brackets (Damon-Q, FLI-SL, new/improved FLI-SL (I FLI-SL), SPEED, GAC innovation (R) and Ortho Classic) and (3) a low-friction bracket (Synergy). All brackets had a 0.022″ slot size. The tested archwires were stainless steel (0.018″; 0.016″x0.022″; 0.017″x0.025″; 0.018″x0.025″ and 0.019″x0.025″); nickel titanium (NiTi; 0.016″x0.022″; 0.017″x0.025″; 0.018″x0.025″ and 0.019″x0.025″) and titanium molybdenum alloy (TMA; 0.016″x0.022″; 0.017″x0.025″; 0.018″x0.025″ and 0.019″x0.025″). Canine retraction was experimentally simulated in a biomechanical set-up using a NiTi coil spring that delivered a force of 1 N. The simulated retraction path was up to 4 mm. Force loss due to friction was compared between groups using the Welch t‑test.

RESULTS

Force loss due to friction increased with increasing archwire size. Also, TMA showed the highest and stainless steel the lowest force loss due to friction. FLI-SL brackets showed the lowest Fr (31%) and Ortho Classic showed the highest (67%).

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing wire size generally showed increasing force loss due to friction. FLI-SL brackets showed the lowest, while Ortho Classic showed the highest friction.

Static and kinetic frictional forces of silica-insert ceramic brackets with coated archwires in artificial saliva

Background:

During sliding mechanics, the frictional force (FF) is an important counterforce to orthodontic tooth movement. The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the static and kinetic FFs of S silica-insert ceramic (SIC) brackets with Teflon-coated (TC) and conventional S stainless steel (SS) archwires.

Materials and Methods:

The target group of this study included 80 maxillary canine 0.022 inch slot SIC brackets. Forty SS brackets were used as the control. TC and conventional uncoated SS archwires of different dimensions (0.016, 0.018, 0.016 × 0.022, and 0.018 × 0.025 inch) were examined. All tests were carried out under artificial saliva injected condition. Scanning Electron Micrographs were prepared for two samples of coated and uncoated archwires. Analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc tests were used for statistical purposes (level of significance P < 0.05).

Results:

SIC brackets showed significantly lower levels of FFs than SS brackets. TC archwires had greater frictional values than conventional uncoated ones. They also exhibited an unusual behavior of increasing kinetic FFs with time. Indentation and delamination of coating were obvious under scanning electron microscopy observations.

Conclusion:

From the standpoint of friction, SIC brackets may serve well, even better than SS brackets, in sliding mechanics. The coating layer of the archwires may delaminate and lost, causing an impediment to tooth movement.

The effect of conventional versus figure-of-eight module ligation on mandibular incisor alignment: a randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether using figure-of-eight modules affects the rate of lower incisor alignment compared with conventionally tied modules.

DESIGN

Prospective randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

Orthodontic department at Queen's Hospital, Burton upon Trent, UK.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty participants were randomly allocated to conventional module or figure-of-eight module groups, stratified for extraction or non-extraction lower arch treatment. Eligibility criteria included patients who were 12-15 years of age at the start of treatment, in the permanent dentition, and had mandibular incisor irregularity of 5-10 mm (clinical observation). The primary outcome was the rate of lower incisor alignment during the first 12 weeks of orthodontic treatment. The secondary outcome was bracket failure rate. Lower labial segment alignment was measured on study models using the Little's Irregularity Index at the start (T0) of treatment, at 6 weeks (T1) and 12 weeks (T2). Case records were analysed to assess the number of bracket failures.

RESULTS

The four groups were well matched at baseline with respect to gender, age and irregularity. All patients completed the trial and data were analysed on an intention to treat basis. In both ligation groups, the lower teeth aligned significantly faster when the treatment involved extractions, for the time periods T0-T1 and T0-T2 (p < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between conventional module and figure-of-eight module ligation on the rate of alignment (per month) for all three-time periods. The bracket failure rate was also similar in both test groups; 4.08% for conventional and 3.21% for figure-of-eight ligation.

CONCLUSIONS

Ligation with figure-of-eight modules has no clinically significant effect on the rate of lower incisor alignment; it does not seem to hinder or quicken the alignment of teeth. There were no differences in the mean number of bracket failures per person.

An in vitro Evaluation of Friction Characteristics of Conventional Stainless Steel and Self-ligating Stainless Steel Brackets with different Dimensions of Archwires in Various Bracket-archwire Combination

AIM

The purpose of this research is to compare the frictional attributes of stainless steel conventional brackets and self-ligating stainless steel brackets with different dimensions of archwires.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The test was carried with two sets of maxillary brackets: (1) Conventional stainless steel (Victory Series), (2) stainless steel self-ligating (SmartClip) without first premolar brackets. Stainless steel, nickel-titanium (NiTi), and beta-Ti which are the types of orthodontic wire alloys were tested in this study. To monitor the frictional force, a universal testing machine (Instron 33R 4467) that comprises 10 kg tension load cell was assigned on a range of 1 kg and determined from 0 to 2 kg, which allows moving of an archwire along the brackets. One-way analysis of variance was used to test the difference between groups. To analyze the statistical difference between the two groups, Student's t-test was used.

RESULTS

For Victory Series in static friction, p-value was 0.946 and for kinetic friction it was 0.944; at the same time for SmartClip, the p value for static and kinetic frictional resistance was 0.497 and 0.518 respectively. Hence, there was no statistically significant difference between the NiTi and stainless steel archwires.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that when compared with conventional brackets with stainless steel ligatures, self-ligating brackets can produce significantly less friction during sliding. Beta-Ti archwires expressed high amount of frictional resistance and the stainless steel archwires comprise low frictional resistance among all the archwire materials.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In orthodontics, frictional resistance has always had a major role. Its ability to impair tooth movement leads to the need for higher forces to move the teeth and it extends the treatment time which results in loss of posterior anchorage. Friction in orthodontics is related with sliding mechanics when a wire is moving through one or a series of bracket slots.

Assessment of Bracket Surface Morphology and Dimensional Change

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to compare the surface morphology and dimensional stability of the bracket slot at the onset of treatment and after 12 months of intraoral exposure. The study also compared the amount of calcium at the bracket base which indicates enamel loss among the three orthodontic brackets following debonding after 12 months of intraoral exposure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The sample consisted of 60 (0.022" MBT) canine brackets. They were divided into three groups: self-ligating, ceramic bracket with metal slot, and stainless steel (SS) brackets. The slot dimensions, micromorphologic characteristics of as-received and retrieved brackets were measured with a stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. The amount of calcium at the bracket base which indicates enamel damage was quantified using energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX).

RESULTS

The results showed statistically significant alterations (P < 0.05) in the right vertical dimension, internal tie wing width (cervical), right and left depth of the slot (Kruskal-Wallis test). Multiple comparison using Mann-Whitney test showed that ceramic brackets underwent (P < 0.05) minimal alterations in the right vertical dimension, internal tie wing width (cervical), right and left depth of the slot (0.01 mm, -0.003 mm, 0.006 mm, -0.002 mm, respectively) when compared with the changes seen in SS and self-ligating brackets. SEM analysis revealed an increase in the surface roughness of ceramic with metal slot brackets and self-ligating bracket showed the least irregularity. The presence of calcium was noted on all evaluated brackets under EDX, but ceramic with metal slot brackets showed a significantly greater amount of enamel loss (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Ceramic brackets were found to be dimensionally stable when compared to SS and self-ligating. Self-ligating bracket showed minimal surface irregularity. Ceramic with metal slot brackets showed a greater amount of enamel loss following debonding.

The Effects of In-Office Reconditioning on the Slot Dimensions and Static Frictional Resistance of Stainless Steel Brackets

INTRODUCTION

Orthodontists are commonly faced with the decision of what to do with loose brackets, and with inaccurately located brackets that need repositioning during treatment. One solution is to recycle the brackets. The potential effects of reconditioning a bracket are dependent upon many factors which may result in physical changes like alteration in slot tolerance, which may influence sliding mechanics by affecting frictional resistance.

AIM

To study and compare the dimensional changes in the bracket slot width and depth in reconditioned brackets from unused brackets under scanning electronic microscope and to study and compare any consequent effects on the static frictional resistance of stainless steel brackets after reconditioning and in unused brackets.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dentarum manufactured 90 stainless steel central incisors edgewise brackets of size 0.22 X 0.030″ inch and 0° tip and 0°angulation were taken. 60 samples for measuring frictional resistance and 30 samples for measuring slot dimensions. Ortho organizers manufactured stainless steel arch wires 0.019 X 0.025″ straight lengths 60 in number were considered for measuring static frictional resistance.

RESULTS

The mean slot width and depth of new brackets were 0.0251″ and 0.0471″, which exceeded the manufacturers reported nominal size of 0.022″ X 0.030″, by 0.003″ and 0.017″. The reconditioned brackets demonstrated a further increase in mean slot width and depth to 0.028″ and 0.0518″ that is by 0.0035″ and 0.0047″ which is statistically significant (p=0.001, 0.002). The mean static frictional forces of the reconditioned brackets was nearly similar to that of new brackets that is 0.3167N for reconditioned brackets and 0.2613 N for new brackets.

CONCLUSION

Although the reconditioning process results in physical changes to bracket structure this does not appear to result in significant effect on ex-vivo static frictional resistance.

Evaluation of surface roughness of the bracket slot floor--a 3D perspective study

BACKGROUND

An important constituent of an orthodontic appliance is orthodontic brackets. It is either the bracket or the archwire that slides through the bracket slot, during sliding mechanics. Overcoming the friction between the two surfaces demands an important consideration in an appliance design. The present study investigated the surface roughness of four different commercially available stainless steel brackets.

METHODS

All tests were carried out to analyse quantitatively the morphological surface of the bracket slot floor with the help of scanning electron microscope (SEM) machine and to qualitatively analyse the average surface roughness (Sa) of the bracket slot floor with the help of a three-dimensional (3D) non-contact optical surface profilometer machine.

RESULTS

The SEM microphotographs were evaluated with the help of visual analogue scale, the surface roughness for group A = 0-very rough surface, group C = 1--rough surface, group B = 2--smooth surface, and group D = 3-very smooth surface. Surface roughness evaluation with the 3D non-contact optical surface profilometer machine was highest for group A, followed by group C, group B and group D. Groups B and D provided smooth surface roughness; however, group D had the very smooth surface with values 0.74 and 0.75 for mesial and distal slots, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluation of surface roughness of the bracket slot floor with both SEM and profilometer machine led to the conclusion that the average surface roughness was highest for group A, followed by group C, group B and group D.

Fluoride influences nickel-titanium orthodontic wires' surface texture and friction resistance

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects exerted by the acidulated fluoride gel on stainless steel and nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) orthodontic wires.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty stainless steel and Ni-Ti orthodontic archwires were distributed into forty archwires used for in vitro study and twenty for in situ study. Fluoride was applied for 1 h in the in vitro experiment while it was applied for 5 min in the in situ experiment. The friction resistance of all wires with ceramic brackets before/after topical fluoride application was measured using a universal testing machine at 1 min intervals of moving wire. Moreover, surface properties of the tested wires before/after fluoride application and before/after friction test were examined by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Dunnett's t-test was used to compare frictional resistance of as-received stainless steel wires and Ni-Ti wires to the wires treated by fluoride in vitro and in situ (P < 0.05). Two-way ANOVA was used to compare the effect of fluoride application and type of wire on friction resistance in vitro and in situ (P < 0.05).

Results:

Ni-Ti wires recorded significantly high friction resistance after fluoride application when compared to stainless steel wires in vitro, P < 0.05. Fluoride application did not significantly affect the friction resistance of the tested wires in situ, P < 0.05. SEM observation revealed deterioration of the surface texture of the Ni-Ti wires after fluoride application in vitro and in situ.

Conclusions:

The in vitro fluoride application caused an increase in friction resistance of Ni-Ti wires when compared to stainless steel wires. In vitro and in situ fluoride application caused deterioration in surface properties of Ni-Ti wires.

Comparative Evaluation of Frictional Properties, Load Deflection Rate and Surface Characteristics of Different Coloured TMA Archwires - An Invitro Study

INTRODUCTION

During tooth movement the success of sliding mechanics is dependent upon various factors which include frictional resistance at bracket-archwire interface, surface roughness of archwire materials and elastic properties of archwires. Ion implantation techniques reduce the frictional force and allow better tooth movement clinically.

AIM

The main objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the frictional properties, load deflection rate and surface characteristics of Honey dew and Purple coloured (Ion implanted) TMA wires with uncoated TMA wires.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifteen archwire samples were divided into three groups comprising of five samples in each group namely, Group I - Uncoated TMA wires (Control), Group II - Purple coloured TMA wires and Group III- Honey dew TMA wires. Friction and load deflection rate testing were performed with the Instron Universal testing machine and the surface characteristics of the wires were evaluated before and after sliding using Scanning Electron Microscope.

RESULTS

The mean frictional characteristics and surface roughness for Honey dew TMA wires was lesser than Purple coloured TMA wires which was statistically significant. Both the coloured TMA wires showed low frictional characteristics and less surface roughness than uncoated TMA wires (the control). The mean load deflection rate was low for both coloured ion implanted TMA wires when compared to uncoated TMA wires which was statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Coloured ion implanted TMA wires, especially Honey dew TMA wires have low friction, low load deflection rate and improved surface finish. Hence they can be used in frictionless as well as sliding mechanics, where uncoated TMA wires are inefficient.

Friction in orthodontics

Conventional wisdom suggests that resistance to sliding (RS) generated at the wire-bracket interface has a bearing on the force transmitted to the teeth. The relative importance of static and kinetic friction and also the effect of friction on anchorage has been a topic of debate. Lot of research work has been done to evaluate the various factors that affect friction and thus purportedly retards the rate of tooth movement. However, relevancy of these studies is questionable as the methodology used hardly simulates the oral conditions. Lately studies have concluded that more emphasis should be laid on binding and notching of archwires as these are considered to be the primary factors involved in retarding the tooth movement. This article reviews the various components involved in RS and the factors affecting friction. Further, research work should be carried out to provide cost effective alternatives aimed at reducing friction.

[Brackets and friction in orthodontics: experimental study]

Many authors have been involved in developing brackets in order to improve the quality, stability, speed and efficiency of orthodontic treatment. In order to reduce friction between bracket and archwire, new therapeutic approaches have been devised based on novel technologies. Among these innovative techniques, self-ligating brackets are increasingly popular. SLBs can be classified into several categories according to their mode of action and their materials. We performed an experimental study to compare the friction forces generated during the sliding of orthodontic archwires made from various alloys through conventional and self-ligating brackets. Results show the favorable influence of SLBs, compared to conventional systems using elastomeric or metal ligatures, on the level of friction, particularly when shape-memory Ni-Ti archwires are used.

In vitro assessment of competency for different lingual brackets in sliding mechanics

AIM

To determine the static frictional resistance of different lingual brackets at different second order angulations when coupled with stainless steel (SS) archwire in dry and wet conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using a modified jig, frictional resistance was evaluated under different conditions for a total of 270 upper premolar lingual brackets (0.018″ × 0.025″ - conventional - 7(th) generation and STb, self-ligating - evolution) with no in-built tip or torque together with 0.016″ × 0.022″ straight length SS archwires. For conventional brackets, the archwire was secured with 0.008″ preformed SS short ligature ties.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

One way analysis of variance with Tukey HSD as post-hoc test was applied for degree wise and bracket wise comparison within dry condition and wet condition. For pair wise comparison Student's t-test was used.

RESULTS

Under both conditions the static frictional resistance is significantly higher for self-ligating brackets at 0°, while at 5° and 10° it is higher for 7(th) generation brackets. Statistically, significant difference does not exist at 0° between conventional brackets and the same was found at 5° and 10° between STb and self-ligating brackets. With an increase in second order angulations, all the evaluated samples exhibited an increased frictional value. Wet condition samples obtained a higher value than their corresponding dry condition.

CONCLUSION

The self-ligating bracket evaluated in this in vitro study is not beneficial in reducing friction during en-mass retraction due to its interactive clip type.

Current Products and Practice

Due to an increasing demand for superior aesthetics during fixed appliance treatment, the use of aesthetic brackets has grown in popularity over recent years. Although often requested by patients, aesthetic brackets are not without their disadvantages. This article presents the currently available plastic and ceramic brackets and discusses the potential problems associated with each. Recent advances, introduced by manufacturers in an attempt to overcome their clinical disadvantages, are described.

Self-ligating brackets: where are we now?

The current situation regarding self-ligating brackets is reviewed. Recent developments, clinical advantages, and remaining imperfections are described. The question of active versus passive ligation is scrutinized. The evidence regarding treatment efficiency is reviewed. Suggested clinical tips and changes of treatment mechanics are summarized and illustrated. Self-ligating brackets have reached a stage of design and production control, where the advantages are significantly greater than the remaining imperfections.

Comparison of the frictional resistance between archwire and different bracket system: An in vitro study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the frictional resistance generated by conventional stainless steel, radiance ceramic bracket, self-ligating and composite brackets using a 0.019 × 0.025 stainless steel straight length wires in a 022 slot and to select brackets based on their frictional characteristic.

METHODOLOGY

In order to conduct this study, four different types of bracket system were selected of the mclaughlin-bennet-trevesi (MBT) discipline. They are Group 1 - stainless steel, Group 2 - composite bracket Group 3 - (American Orthodontics) radiance ceramic bracket Group 4 - self-ligating bracket (SLB) (Empower). In this study, five maxillary brackets of an arch of each type were used. All brackets are 0.022 × 0.028 in preadjusted edgewise appliance which simulates the dental arch. Five brackets were bonded to a stainless steel bar of dimension 150 mm × 25 mm × 3 mm. The bracket-arch wire units were submitted to mechanical test with an Instron universal testing machine 3365. A testing apparatus or holding jig was designed to hold the bracket during the mechanical test. Each sample was pulled at a speed of 6 mm for 1 min. Descriptive statistical information including mean and standard deviation of maximum friction force was calculated for each bracket wire combination.

INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSION

The SLB has the least friction among the four groups. The ceramic bracket showed the highest friction followed by stainless steel bracket, composite bracket, and SLB.

Invisible orthodontics part 3: aesthetic orthodontic brackets

In this, the third part of the series, aesthetic orthodontic treatment will be considered. The previous two articles have looked at invisible orthodontics with Invisalign and lingual brackets. This article will discuss the properties and use of aesthetic brackets, along with examples of orthodontic treatment cases using the aesthetic brackets.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Increasing demand for aesthetics during orthodontic treatment has resulted in a significant increase in the use of aesthetic brackets. Clinicians need to be aware of the benefits and drawbacks of aesthetic brackets.

Evaluation of the friction force generated by monocristalyne and policristalyne ceramic brackets in sliding mechanics

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and compare "in vitro" the maximum friction force generated by three types of esthetic brackets, two types of polycrystalline conventional ceramic brackets (20/40 and InVu) and one type of sapphire monocrystalline bracket (Radiance) in dry and artificial saliva wet settings. Also, to evaluate the influence exerted by artificial saliva on the friction forces of those brackets.

METHODS

Tests were performed in dry and artificial saliva wet setting (Oral Balance) by using an EMIC DL 10000 testing machine, simulating a 2 mm slide of 0.019 x 0.025-in rectangular stainless steel wires over the pre-angulated and pre-torqued (right superior canine, Roth prescription, slot 0.022 x 0.030-in) brackets (n = 18 for each bracket). In order to compare groups in dry and wet settings, the ANOVA was used. For comparisons related to the dry versus wet setting, the student t test was used for each group.

RESULTS

The results showed that in the absence of saliva the Radiance monocrystalline brackets showed the highest friction coefficients, followed by the 20/40 and the InVu polycrystalline brackets. In tests with artificial saliva, the Radiance and the 20/40 brackets had statistically similar friction coefficients and both were greater than that presented by the InVu brackets. The artificial saliva did not change the maximum friction force of the Radiance brackets, but, for the others (20/40 and InVu), an increase of friction was observed in its presence.

CONCLUSION

The InVu brackets showed, in the absence and in the presence of saliva, the lowest friction coefficient.

Effect of applied moment on resistance to sliding among esthetic self-ligating brackets

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of mode of ligation and bracket material on resistance to sliding (RS) by comparing various esthetic brackets of conventionally ligated and self-ligating (SL) designs under an increasing applied moment in the second-order dimension.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eight different commercially available esthetic brackets of SL and conventional elastomeric-ligated (CL) designs were mounted on a testing apparatus to simulate canine retraction using sliding mechanics and the application of a moment on 0.019″×0.025″ stainless steel archwire. The samples examined were the CL brackets Clarity™, Inspire Ice™, SpiritMB™, and Mystique™, and the SL brackets ClaritySL™, In-OvationC™, In-OvationR™, and Smartclip™. The RS at calculated moments of 2000 g-mm and 4000 g-mm was determined and compared between the various brackets. Descriptive measures and one-way analysis of variance were used to calculate means and statistical differences among the bracket types.

RESULTS

The CL monocrystalline bracket displayed significantly greater (P < .05) RS than all other brackets tested. Among the other brackets, the range of RS values was 145.8-191.7 g and 291.9-389.2 g at moments of 2000 g-mm and 4000 g-mm, respectfully, though these differences were not significant (P < .05). All brackets tested displayed greater levels of RS (P < .05) at 4000 g-mm than at 2000 g-mm.

CONCLUSION

With the exception of the CL monocrystalline bracket, all brackets displayed comparable amounts of RS regardless of mode of ligation or bracket slot material.

Changes in the surface roughness and friction coefficient of orthodontic bracket slots before and after treatment

In this study, we tested the surface roughness of bracket slots and the friction coefficient between the bracket and the stainless steel archwire before and after orthodontic treatment. There were four experimental groups: groups 1 and 2 were 3M new and retrieved brackets, respectively, and groups 3 and 4 were BioQuick new and retrieved brackets, respectively. All retrieved brackets were taken from patients with the first premolar extraction and using sliding mechanics to close the extraction space. The surface roughness of specimens was evaluated using an optical interferometry profilometer, which is faster and nondestructive compared with a stylus profilometer, and provided a larger field, needing no sample preparation, compared with atomic force microscopy. Orthodontic treatment resulted in significant increases in surface roughness and coefficient of friction for both brands of brackets. However, there was no significant difference by brand for new or retrieved brackets. These retrieval analysis results highlight the necessity of reevaluating the properties and clinical behavior of brackets during treatment to make appropriate treatment decisions.

A comparative study of frictional resistance during simulated canine retraction on typodont model

Objectives:

Frictional resistance is an important counterforce to orthodontic tooth movement during sliding mechanics. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of different bracket-archwire-ligation combinations on “resistance to sliding” during simulated canine retraction on typodont model.

Materials and Methods:

the frictional resistance was tested between three modern orthodontic brackets-stainless steel, ceramic, and ceramic with metal slot (0.022-inch), and seven different archwires (0.019 × 0.025-inch)-stainless steel, nickel-titanium, Teflon coated stainless steel, stainless steel with the reverse curve of spee (RCS), Teflon coated stainless steel with RCS, Teflon coated nickel-titanium and nickel-titanium with RCS ligated with stainless steel ligature wire and regular clear elastomeric modules. All tests were carried out in a dry state on an Instron universal testing machine (crosshead speed: 0.5 mm/min). 10 measurements were made from each bracket-archwire-ligature combinations.

Results:

The highest mean frictional resistance was found in ceramic brackets with nickel-titanium RCS archwire ligated with elastomeric modules while minimum frictional resistance was found in stainless steel brackets with Teflon coated stainless steel archwire ligated with stainless steel ligature. Metal slot ceramic brackets generated significantly lower frictional forces than ceramic brackets, but higher values than stainless steel brackets. Teflon coated archwires shows highly significant reduction of the frictional resistance than their corresponding uncoated archwires. Archwires with RCS had the higher frictional resistance than normal counterpart archwires.

Conclusion:

Ceramic brackets with metal slot and Teflon coated SS archwires seem to be a good alternative to conventional stainless steel brackets and archwires in space closure with sliding mechanics in patients with esthetic demands.

Profile of the orthodontist practicing in the State of São Paulo--part 2

INTRODUCTION

The choice of brackets, bands and wires is a very important aspect of orthodontic treatment. Stainless steel prevailed for a long time, but new alloys and resources have emerged to diversify the orthodontic wire mechanics.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the profile and materials used by orthodontists practicing in the State of São Paulo, Brazil.

METHODS

A questionnaire was sent to 2,414 specialists in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics registered with the Regional Board of Dentistry of São Paulo State (CRO-SP). To assess the association between qualitative variables, the Chi-square association test was employed at 5% significance level.

RESULTS

Five hundred and ninety-three (24.65%) questionnaires were completed and sent back. Efficiency was the key reason given by the professionals for choosing a particular material. The majority showed a preference for metal brackets (98%), followed by ceramics (32%) and polycarbonate (7.8%). The most widely used brackets had 0.022 x 0.028-in slots (73.2%). Regarding orthodontic wires, 88.2% employed round steel wires and conventional round NiTi wires, while 52.6% used round heat-activated NiTi and 46.5% rectangular TMA wires. Elastics (92.9%) were the most widely used method to tie the orthodontic archwire to the bracket.

CONCLUSIONS

In this survey, the orthodontists claimed that efficiency was the major motivator for choosing orthodontic materials. Conventional brackets tied with conventional elastic ligatures are still the most used by the professionals. Among steel and conventional Nitinol wires, round wires ranked first. The use of resources recently available to Brazilian orthodontists, such as self-ligating brackets and mini-implants, was not significant.

Force loss in archwire-guided tooth movement of conventional and self-ligating brackets

This study aimed to investigate the differences in the force loss during simulated archwire-guided canine retraction between various conventional and self-ligating brackets. Three types of orthodontic brackets have been investigated experimentally using a biomechanical set-up: 1. conventional ligating brackets (Victory Series and Mini-Taurus), 2. self-ligating brackets (SmartClip: passive self-ligating bracket, and Time3 and SPEED: active self-ligating brackets), and 3. a conventional low-friction bracket (Synergy). All brackets had a nominal 0.022″ slot size. The brackets were combined with three rectangular 0.019×0.025″ archwires: 1. Remanium (stainless steel), 2. Nitinol SE (nickel-titanium alloy, NiTi), and 3. Beta III Titanium (titanium-molybdenum alloy). Stainless steel ligatures were used with the conventional brackets. Archwire-guided tooth movement was simulated over a retraction path of up to 4mm using a superelastic NiTi coil spring (force: 1 N). Force loss was lowest for the Victory Series and SmartClip brackets in combination with the steel guiding archwire (35 and 37.6 per cent, respectively) and highest for the SPEED and Mini-Taurus brackets in combination with the titanium wire (73.7 and 64.4 per cent, respectively). Force loss gradually increased by 10 per cent for each bracket type in combination with the different wires in the following sequence: stainless steel, Nitinol, and beta-titanium. Self-ligating brackets did not show improved performance compared with conventional brackets. There was no consistent pattern of force loss when comparing conventional and self-ligating brackets or passive and active self-ligating brackets.

Assessment of surface friction of self-ligating brackets under conditions of angulated traction

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess resistance to sliding of stainless steel passive self-ligating brackets with 0° and 2.5° angulations and to compare them to active self-ligating brackets at zero angulation. The hypothesis to be tested was that passive self-ligating brackets produce lower frictional forces than active self-ligating brackets. METHODS: Twenty five 0.022 x 0.028-in slot maxillary canine brackets were divided into 5 groups of 5 brackets: Damon SL II (Ormco, CA, USA) self-ligating bracket and Gemini (3M/Unitek, CA, USA) conventional bracket with angulation of 0 and 2.5° and a group of Speed 2 (American Orthodontics, WI, USA) active clip self-ligating system with zero angulation. Twenty five segments of stainless steel 0.020-in archwire (TP Orthodontics, IN, USA) were tested and each bracket/wire interface was evaluated at 4 successive points during sliding. Overall, 100 frictional values were analyzed by parametric analysis of variance and Bonferroni tests. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Frictional tests were performed with an Emic DL 10000 testing machine (Emic, Brazil) with a load cell of one kilogram. Passive self-ligating brackets produced lower frictional forces than active self-ligating brackets (p < 0.01). Under angulation, brackets with a slide mechanism produced higher friction than the same brackets under zero angulation (p < 0.01). Nevertheless, the slide system under angulation produced smaller friction values than conventional brackets tied with elastomeric ligatures in 0° tests.

Optimization of orthodontic treatment using the Centrex System to retract anterior teeth

INTRODUCTION: In the end of 90's the adoption of mini-implants as Anchorage allowed a paradigm change influencing even the way of thinking orthodontic mechanics. The overlapping of the specialties of Orthodontics and Implantology started with orthodontic preparations for prosthetic implants insertion, aroused with the use of palatal implants and late with the introduction of mini-implants. The improvement of mini-implants insertion technique with the appearing of self-drilling screws has allowed orthodontists to plan and to place this precious Anchorage piece. Taking into account the versatility of positioning of these screws it was developed a concept that allows the construction of force action lines aiming at optimize the planning and predictability of orthodontic motion. OBJECTIVE: To present some clinical results treatments conduct using Centrex System of orthodontic treatment, approximating the force line action of resistance center of units to be moved. The traced way to its development, previously treated in this journal, will be detailed for better understanding of its functioning.

The clinical and laboratory effects of bracket type during canine distalization with sliding mechanics

OBJECTIVE

To compare the extent of canine movement with sliding mechanics between a self-ligating (SC) bracket and a modified twin design (MT) bracket. To test the in vitro coefficient of friction (COFs) of these two metal brackets on 0.019- × 0.025-inch, stainless-steel arch wires.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For the clinical portion of this study, a split-mouth design was used to bond the brackets of 19 patients. Canine distalization was achieved on a 0.019- × 0.025-inch, stainless-steel arch wire with a nickel-titanium, closed-coil spring strained between a mini-screw and a canine bracket. The linear and angular measurements were performed using lateral cephalometric radiographs taken before and after canine distalization. A tribometer was also used to measure the COFs of the bracket types in vitro. For comparisons, Student's t-tests for paired and unpaired samples were used at the 95% confidence level.

RESULTS

The extent of canine movement and the changes in the canine and molar teeth angles were not significantly different between the SC and MT brackets. After 8 weeks, the mean canine movements were 1.83 and 1.89 mm in the maxilla and 1.79 mm and 1.70 mm in the mandible with the SC and MT brackets, respectively. The mean COF of the MT brackets (0.21) was significantly lower than that of the SC brackets (0.37) during in vitro testing.

CONCLUSION

It is suggested that the rate of canine distalization was not different between the two groups, although in vitro COFs of the SC bracket was higher.

Influência da secção transversa de fios ortodônticos na fricção superficial de braquetes autoligados

OBJETIVO: o objetivo do presente trabalho foi determinar a força de atrito estático entre braquetes de aço inoxidável autoligados com sistema de fechamento resiliente e fios ortodônticos redondos e retangulares do mesmo material. MÉTODOS: empregaram-se 30 braquetes referentes aos caninos superiores divididos em 6 grupos formados por braquetes autoligados Smartclip, In-Ovation R e convencionais Gemini amarrados com ligaduras elásticas. A hipótese testada neste trabalho foi quanto à possibilidade dos braquetes autoligados ativos serem suscetíveis à elevação da força de atrito com o aumento e alteração da secção transversal dos fios ortodônticos. Os ensaios foram realizados com tração de 30s em fios de aço inoxidável 0,020" e 0,019"X0,025" na máquina de ensaios Emic DL 10000, com uma célula de carga de 20 newtons. Cada conjunto braquete/fio foi responsável pela geração de quatro corpos de prova, totalizando 120 leituras. As comparações entre as médias foram realizadas através da Análise de Variância (one way ANOVA) com correções pelo coeficiente de Bonferroni. RESULTADOS E CONCLUSÃO: os braquetes autoligados apresentaram maior força de atrito do que os braquetes convencionais amarrados com ligaduras elásticas. O grupo Smartclip foi o mais efetivo no controle do atrito (p<0,01). A hipótese em teste, influência da forma da seção transversal do fio na força de atrito, foi confirmada, uma vez que os fios de secção retangular 0,019"X0,025" apresentaram maior força de atrito ao serem tracionados do que os fios redondos 0,020" (p<0,01). O sistema Smartclip foi mais efetivo mesmo quando o tracionamento de fios retangulares foi comparado com o ensaio de braquetes In-Ovation R conjugados a fios redondos (p<0,01).

Fricção em braquetes gerada por fios de aço inoxidável, superelásticos com IonGuard e sem IonGuard

OBJETIVO: o objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a fricção no braquete (Roth, Composite, 10.17.005, 3,2mm, largura 0,022" x 0,030", Torque -2° e angulação +13°, Morelli®, Brasil), utilizando fios ortodônticos retangulares de 0,019" x 0,025" de aço inoxidável (Morelli®, Brasil) e de níquel-titânio superelásticos Bioforce com IonGuard e sem IonGuard (Bioforce, GAC®, EUA). MÉTODOS: foram utilizados 24 conjuntos braquetes/segmento de fio, divididos em 3 grupos de acordo com o fio. Cada conjunto braquete/segmento de fio foi testado 3 vezes e obtida uma média. Os ensaios foram realizados em máquina universal de ensaios EMIC DL2000®. Os dados foram submetidos à Análise de Variância com significância de 95%. RESULTADOS: o fio retangular Bioforce com IonGuard apresentou fricção significativamente menor que o Bioforce sem IonGuard, porém sem diferença do fio de aço inoxidável. Entretanto, o coeficiente de variação dos fios Bioforce com e sem IonGuard foi menor que o do fio de aço inoxidável. CONCLUSÃO: os fios retangulares de 0,019" x 0,025" Bioforce com IonGuard apresentam menor fricção que o fio Bioforce sem IonGuard, sem diferença para o fio de aço inoxidável.

The effect upon friction of the degradation of orthodontic elastomeric modules

Orthodontic elastomeric modules are susceptible to degradation and deformation after time in the mouth. The aims of this study were to determine whether degradation of elastomeric modules significantly affects friction during sliding mechanics and to investigate whether there is a difference in the behaviour of elastomeric modules after storage in both in vivo and in vitro environments. An Instron testing machine was used to determine the friction generated by elastomeric modules on 0.019 × 0.025 inch stainless steel archwires at 4 degrees of bracket tip. Four brands of modules were tested straight from the packet (n = 15), after storage in artificial saliva (n = 15), and after being in patients' mouths (n = 32). Modules were tested after 24 hours, 1 week, and 6 weeks after storage in both in vivo and in vitro. Analysis of variance revealed that the degradation of elastomeric modules had a variable affect upon friction and that each storage medium produced a distinct pattern of frictional resistance. Modules stored in artificial saliva experienced a significant reduction in friction (P < 0.001) while modules collected from patients' mouths produced similar friction to modules tested straight from the packet. TP Super Slick® modules under dry test conditions produced significantly greater friction than the other three types of test modules (P < 0.001). The structure and surface characteristics of elastomeric modules may affect frictional resistance when a bracket slides along an archwire. These effects vary according to time, storage medium, and brand of elastomeric material.

Comparison of friction force between corroded and noncorroded titanium nitride plating of metal brackets

INTRODUCTION

Titanium nitride (TiN) plating is a method to prevent metal corrosion and can increase the surface smoothness. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the friction forces between the orthodontic bracket, with or without TiN plating, and stainless steel wire after it was corroded in fluoride-containing solution.

METHODS

In total, 540 metal brackets were divided into a control group and a TiN-coated experimental group. The electrochemical corrosion was performed in artificial saliva with 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) as the electrolytes. Static and kinetic friction were measured by an EZ-test machine (Shimadazu, Tokyo, Japan) with a crosshead speed of 10 mm per minute over a 5-mm stretch of stainless steel archwire. The data were analyzed by using unpaired t test and analysis of variance (ANOVA).

RESULTS

Both the control and TiN-coated groups' corrosion potential was higher with 1.23% APF solution than with artificial solution (P <0.05). In brackets without corrosion, both the static and kinetic friction force between the control and TiN-coated brackets groups showed a statistically significant difference (P <0.05). In brackets with corrosion, the control group showed no statistical difference on kinetic or static friction. The TiN-coated brackets showed a statistical difference (P <0.05) on kinetic and static friction in different solutions.

CONCLUSION

TiN-coated metal brackets, with corrosion or without corrosion, cannot reduce the frictional force.

Archwire depth is a significant parameter in the frictional resistance of active and interactive, but not passive, self-ligating brackets

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate some of the parameters determining the frictional behavior of passive, active, and interactive self-ligating brackets during sliding mechanics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A custom jig mimicking the three-dimensional tooth movements that occur during sliding mechanics and an Instron testing machine were used to determine the resistance to sliding of six different self-ligating brackets (SPEED, In-Ovation C, CarrièreSLB, ClaritySL, SmartClip, VisionLP). Each bracket was tested on three rectangular stainless steel wires: 0.017 × 0.022 inch, 0.017 × 0.025 inch, and 0.019 × 0.025 inch. A two-way balanced analysis of variance was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The four passive self-ligating brackets (CarrièreSLB, ClaritySL, SmartClip, VisionLP) displayed significantly lower frictional resistance (P < .001) than the remaining brackets, which featured an active (SPEED) or interactive (In-Ovation C) clip. The SPEED bracket consistently demonstrated the highest resistance to sliding.

CONCLUSIONS

The mode of self-ligation appears to be the primary variable in determining the frictional behavior of orthodontic brackets undergoing sliding mechanics. Passive self-ligating brackets demonstrated significantly lower frictional resistance to sliding. With regard to the resistance of active self-ligating brackets, the depth (buccolingual thickness) of the wire had a more significant influence than its height.

A comparison of resistance to sliding of self-ligating brackets under an increasing applied moment

OBJECTIVE

To test the null hypotheses that at clinically relevant amounts of applied moment, there are no differences in the amount of resistance to sliding (RS) between self-ligating (SL) and conventionally ligated (CL) brackets on both stainless steel (SS) and nickel-titanium (NT) archwire.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three different SL brackets and one CL bracket, all 0.022″ slot, were tested on a custom-built device to simulate canine retraction mechanics in the second-order dimension. The setup allowed for simultaneous and continuous measurement of RS and applied moment at the bracket-archwire interface. The brackets tested were Damon3, In-Ovation R, Smartclip, and Victory, all of which were tested with 0.019″ × 0.025″ SS and NT archwires. The RS at calculated moments of 2000 g-mm and 4000 g-mm was determined and compared between the various brackets and both archwire types. Descriptive measures, analysis of variance, and Tukey-Kramer post-test comparisons were used to calculate results.

RESULTS

All brackets displayed a greater amount of RS with NT than with SS archwires. At the higher moment levels (4000 g-mm), no significant reduction in RS was found between CL and SL brackets on both SS and NT archwires. At lower levels of applied moment (2000 g-mm), reductions in RS of 18% (42.7 g) and 18% (38.5 g) were found between the CL bracket and the best performing SL bracket on NT and SS, respectively.

CONCLUSION

At low values of applied moment, some statistical differences were found; however, in general, the differences in RS amongst the various SL and CL brackets tested may not be clinically relevant.

A comparative evaluation of rate of space closure after extraction using E-chain and stretched modules in bimaxillary dentoalveolar protrusion cases

BACKGROUND

Aim of this study was to compare the rate of space closure between E-chain mechanics in one side of upper arch and by elastomeric module with ligature wire on the contralateral side in same patient.

METHODS

Thirty bimaxillary dentoalveolar protrusion cases were taken up for comprehensive fixed orthodontic treatment after extraction of all first premolars to retract both upper and lower anterior teeth. After initial alignment and levelling, alginate impressions were made for upper and lower arches and models constructed. In the upper arch model a vernier caliper was used to measure the extraction space in both sides from middle point of distal surface of canine to the middle most point of mesial surface of second premolar. This is the amount of space present before the onset of retraction mechanics. During space closure procedure two different retracting components were applied in right and left sides of each case. On right side elastic chain (E-chain) applied in both upper and lower arches and on left side elastomeric module with steel ligature (0.010") stretched double its diameter fixed in both arches. Both the mechanisms produced approximately 250-300 g of force as measured by a tension gauge. After onset of retraction mechanism all patients were recalled after every six weeks for three visits. In all these three visits modules and E-chains were changed. In all three visits impression was made, models constructed, and the remaining available space was measured by a vernier caliper up to 0.1 mm level variations.

RESULTS

Mean value for total space closure in case of E-chain was 2.777 mm whereas in case of module with ligature wire the value increased to 3.017 mm. Mean value for rate of space closure in case of E-chain was 0.2143 mm, whereas in case of module with ligature wire the value increased to 0.2343 mm with a standard deviation of 0.001104 and 0.001194, respectively. The standard deviation for total space closure was 0.1305 for E-chain and 0.1487 for module with ligature wire.

CONCLUSION

Space closure by elastomeric module with ligature wire is better than the E-chain.