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

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.