A Comparative Study of Static and Kinetic Frictional Resistance during the Sliding of Arch Wires through Orthodontic Brackets, using Different Methods of Ligation, in the Dry State

Armando Montesinos F

doi:10.4172/2090-5025.1000085

Abstract

Frictional resistance is crucial between arch wires and brackets, sometimes benefic and in other clinical situations undesirable, making difficult to apply orthodontic forces efficiently. There are many variables that influence frictional resistance and the method of ligation is one of the most important. The objective of this study was to compare static and kinetic frictional resistance during the sliding of 0.016” and 0.016” × 0.022” SS arch wires (upper and lower) through orthodontic brackets, using different methods of ligation (elastomeric ties, low friction elastomeric ties, stainless steel ligature, active and passive self-ligating brackets). It was developed an original methodology to evaluate frictional resistance to sliding with different methods of ligation. The results showed that the method of ligation that generated the highest static and kinetic frictional resistance values was elastomeric ties, followed by low friction elastomeric ties>metallic ligature> and at last self-ligating brackets for all arch wires.

Highlights

Contemporary Orthodontics objectives are: function, aesthetics, periodontal integrity and stability
The results of this study showed significant different frictional resistance generated by the different methods of ligation
The method of ligation that generated higher frictional resistance values with statistical difference to the lower was: elastomeric ties, low friction elastomeric ties, metallic ligature, and at last the self-ligating brackets, there was no statistical difference between the self-ligating brackets

Summary

Introduction

Contemporary Orthodontics objectives are: function, aesthetics, periodontal integrity and stability. In theory orthodontic tooth movement can be achieved after applying a very light force as the physiological forces that positions the dentition naturally; in this context bone remodeling occurs; these ideal concept is not always achieved, orthodontic forces cause certain tissue damage. The optimum forces for orthodontic tooth movement activate the maximum tissue and cellular response without damaging and maintaining the periodontal ligament integrity and tooth structure. It has been postulated that the remodeling of periodontal tissue is the key element for orthodontic tooth movement. Orthodontists must apply forces high enough to stimulate cellular activity without diminishing blood and oxygen supply [1]. This is a very difficult objective to achieve, because orthodontists deal with frictional resistance, an element ignored in the past. The force that acts between surfaces at rest is called static friction, and the frictional forces acting between surfaces in motion is called kinetic friction [2,3]

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