FRICTIONAL PROPERTIES OF NOVEL BRACKET SYSTEMS: AN IN-VITRO STUDY

• Main Author: Haverkos, Stephen M
• Format: Others
• Published: VCU Scholars Compass 2019
• Subjects: Teflon; Friction; Bracket Sliding; Direct Metal Laser Sintering; 3D Printed Bracket; Rollers; Orthodontics and Orthodontology
• Online Access: https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/etd/5770; https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=6858&context=etd

Orthodontic brackets undergo resistance during sliding that includes classical friction, binding, and notching. Current bracket systems are hampered by these challenging forces. As a result, the clinician usually needs to apply additional forces to overcome the resistance which increases the risk of root resorption and discomfort for the patient. This study evaluated frictional properties of a novel bracket that had polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon™) coated rollers in its design. Five types of brackets (n = 10, each), including a passive self-ligating bracket, a traditional ligated bracket, a three-dimensionally printed direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) bracket with and without Teflon™ rollers, and computer numeric controlled (CNC) machine milled bracket with Teflon™ rollers were tested. The peak resistance values were assessed at 0°, 4°, and 8° of tip on a 0.019 x 0.025” arch wire. At 8° of tip, the DMLS and the CNC milled bracket systems, both with Teflon™ rollers, exhibited less friction as compared to the other brackets tested (p