Evaluation and comparison of bracket slot dimensions in lingual bracket systems: An in vitro study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background The aim of this study was to evaluate bracket slot width and slot depth and to compare and assess the variation between reported and actual slot dimensions of various commercially available lingual brackets. Materials and Methods The study comprised 60 new lingual upper right central incisor brackets from four different manufacturers. Brackets were segregated into four groups composed of 15 brackets: Group A, Ormco STb Lingual Brackets; Group B, Leone Lingual Brackets; Group C, Dentaurum Lingual Brackets; Group D, Dentos Org. Lingual Brackets. Each bracket was individually mounted on a slide using modeling clay. The bracket slot was oriented vertically on the slide so that the line of view of the confocal microscope was parallel to the slot axis. Slot dimensions were measured from the LEXT software of the confocal microscope. Results Slot dimensions were not as mentioned by manufacturers. Slots were either undersized or oversized. Conclusions Actual slot size and shape of commercially available brackets are larger or smaller from the actual prescribed value within a bracket series. Slot geometry and the standard of bracket finish varies between the brackets of different groups. Clinicians should be aware that there may be a three-dimensional loss of tooth positioning as a result of the inadvertent use of orthodontic brackets with oversized slots prolonging treatment duration and the need of additional wire bending to overcome the inadequacies of the brackets so as to achieve a good finishing.