Comparative evaluation of transverse dental arch width changes with conventional and self-ligating brackets

Abstract

Aim: This study aims at comparing the transverse width changes during leveling and aligning phase with conventional and self-ligating brackets. Materials and Methods: The study consisted of twenty samples. The sample was split into two groups. Group 1 consisted of ten samples treated with conventional brackets and ten samples treated with self-ligating brackets. Pretreatment and leveling aligning cast were used for the study. Measurement of transverse dimension was taken at two different regions, premolar and molar. Reference points were chosen according to the Pont's model analysis. In the premolar region, measurements were made from the distal pit of the first premolar on either side, and in the molar region, measurements were made from the mesial pit on either side. The overall values are compiled and compared among both the bracket groups. Results: The results of the study showed that there were changes in the interpremolar and intermolar arch width during leveling and aligning phase in both the bracket types. Conclusion: Since the arch width changes can affect the stability in the posttreatment phase, an orderly use of custom-made archwires from the very beginning is advised. The amount of arch width changes that occur with the treatment is irrespective of the bracket type, provided that other factors are maintained to be constant. Both conventional metal-ligated brackets and dual-activation self-ligating brackets provide an equal amount of changes in the dental arch transverse dimensions.