Comparative evaluation of Stainless-steel wires and brackets coated with nanoparticles of Chitosan or Zinc oxide upon friction: An in vitro study

Abstract

The present study was performed to affirm surface characterization, as well as to compare the effect of coating of stainless-steel (SS) orthodontic brackets and wires by nanoparticles Chitosan (CTS) or Zinc oxide (ZnO) during friction. Seventy SS brackets for the upper right central incisors with a 0.022-inch system and seventy 0.019×0.025-inch SS rectangular wires, with and without ZnO and CTS nanoparticle coating, were used. Coating was analysed by SEM. A universal testing machine was used to calculate the friction between the wires and brackets. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests. Significant differences were detected between coated and uncoated wires and brackets for friction with either ZnO or CTS nanoparticles. The mean values of the wires and brackets coated with ZnO and CTS nanoparticles were 0.64±0.24N and 0.85±0.23N, respectively, while they were 1.79±0.61N for the uncoated group. In addition, there was a significant decrease of about 64% and 53% found after coating with ZnO and CTS nanoparticles, respectively. The results of CTS nanoparticle coating were consistent with those of ZnO nanoparticles. Friction force decreased significantly after coating of CTS or ZnO nanoparticles. These nanoparticles provide an opportunity to reduce friction during tooth movement, resulting in better anchorage control, reduced treatment time and risk ofroot resorption.