Is Copper Ni-Ti more effective than conventional Ni-Ti in terms of rapid tooth alignment and mandibular arch expansion? A double-blind randomized clinical trial

Abstract

In the first phase of orthodontic treatment, initial archwires are used to resolve crowding and correct rotations. Light, continuous forces are required to achieve optimal tooth movement. Nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) archwires are commonly used as initial archwires due to their unique properties. The objective of this study was to compare the Copper Ni-Ti 35°C and the conventional Ni-Ti in dental alignment and maintaining the mandibular arch form. Adouble-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted on adult patients, recruited from the orthodontic department of Saint Joseph University of Beirut and a private orthodontic practice in Beirut. They were randomly allocated into two groups: Copper Ni-Ti 35°C group and conventional Ni-Ti group, where they received both 0.016inch and 0.018inch archwires. Out of three available arch forms, each patient received the most suited archwire to their mandibular arch. Digital impressions were taken every three weeks and analyzed on Orthoanalyzer™. The Little Irregurality Index, space analysis and intercanine, interpremolar, intermolar distances were measured. Repeated measures analysis of variance ANOVA was used followed by Bonferroni multiple comparisons tests. Forty patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either Copper Ni-Ti 35°C or Ni-Ti group. No significant difference between the Copper Ni-Ti 35°C and the conventional Ni-Ti was noted in the resolution of dental crowding (p > 0.05). No significant difference in the dimensions of the mandibular arch was found within and between the two groups (p > 0.05). Copper Ni-Ti 35°C doesn't differ from the conventional Ni-Ti regarding the alignment rate and maintaining the mandibular arch form.