Comparative evaluation of frictional forces in active and passive self-ligating brackets with various archwire alloys

Introduction: Self-ligating brackets are claimed to eliminate or minimize the force of ligation at the bracket-wire interface; therefore, it is imperative to evaluate the frictional features of contemporary self-ligating brackets with different archwire alloys. Methods: This in-vitro study compared the effects of stainless steel, nickel-titanium, and beta-titanium archwires on frictional forces of passive and active self-ligating brackets with a conventional bracket. All brackets had 0.022-in slots, and the wires were 0.019 x 0.025 in. Friction was evaluated in a simulated half-arch fixed appliance on a testing machine. The static and kinetic friction data were analyzed with 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the post-hoc Duncan multiple range test. Archwire alloy and bracket effects were evaluated with 2-way ANOVA. Results: Static and kinetic frictional forces were lower for both the passive and active designs than for the conventional brackets. Maximum values were seen with the beta-titanium archwires, and significant differences were observed between nickel-titanium and stainless steel archwires. With the passive or active self-ligating brackets, stainless steel wire did not produce a significant difference, but differences were significant with nickel-titanium and beta-titanium wires. Conclusions: When nickel-titanium and beta-titanium wires are used for guided tooth movement, passive appliances can minimize frictional resistance. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2009; 136: 675-82)