Assessment of the dimensions and surface characteristics of orthodontic wires and bracket slots

Gabriel Schmidt DOLCI, Ana Maria SPOHR, Eduardo Rigon ZIMMER, Ernani Menezes MARCHIORO

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the dimensions and surface characteristics of orthodontic wires and bracket slots of diferent commercial brands. Methods: Thirty metallic brackets (0.022 x 0.028-in and 0.022 x 0.030-in) were divided in three groups: DYN/3M group = Dyna-Lock, 3M/Unitek (stainless steel, or SS); STD/MO group = Slim Morelli (SS); and NiFree/MO group = Slim Morelli (Ni-Free). The stainless steel wires (0.019 x 0.025-in) were divided into two groups: MO group = Morelli; and 3M group = 3M/Unitek. The bracket and wire measurements were done by two methods: (a) Surface Electron Microscopy (SEM), and (b) Proile projection. The surface analysis was done qualitatively, based on SEM images and/or by a rugosimeter. The quantitative results were analyzed by ANOVA with Tukey’s test (p < 0.05) and Student’s t test. Results: A signiicant diference in the dimensions of slots was observed, and the NiFree/MO group showed the greatest changes when compared to the other groups. The analysis of surface topography of the brackets indicated greater homogeneity of the metallic matrix for DYN/3M and STD/MO groups. As for the dimensions of the wires, groups showed statistically diferent mean heights. Conclusions: It was concluded that wires and brackets slots can present altered dimensions, which might directly and unintentionally afect the planned tooth movement.

Keywords: Orthodontic brackets. Orthodontic wires. Friction.

How to cite: Dolci GS, Spohr AM, Zimmer ER, Marchioro EM. Assessment of the dimensions and surface characteristics of orthodontic wires and bracket slots. Dental Press J Orthod. 2013 Mar-Apr;18(2):69-75.

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