A Comparison of Frictional Resistance Between Stainless Steel, Titanium, Ceramic, and Fibre Glass Brackets - A Comparative Study

This study aims to compare the frictional resistance of active (TIME- 2, IN-OVATION R) and passive (DAMON SL-2, SMART CLIP) self-ligating brackets with conventional TITANIUM, FIBREGLASS and CERAMIC brackets under dry and wet conditions with artificial saliva using universal testing machine.A total of 200 samples were tested of which 80 were self-ligating and 120 were conventional brackets.. Specimens were divided into 2 categories which were run under dry and wet conditions, using artificial saliva.10 samples of each active and passive self-ligating brackets were dry run and 10 others were used in wet conditions. 10 samples of each CERAMIC, TITANIUM and FIBRE GLASS brackets were run using elastomeric ties in both dry and wet conditions and 10 each of them using stainless steel ligatures under dry and wet conditions.The study revealed that the least frictional resistance was demonstrated by the brackets in the following order i.e. PASSIVE SELF- LIGATING BRACKETS, ACTIVE SELF- LIGATING BRACKETS, TITANIUM, FIBREGLASS and CERAMIC brackets in both dry and wet conditions. Paired t-test, two sample t-test, and Analysis of variance were done to evaluate the results statistically.Surface topography of the brackets slots in higher magnification(X 500 at 20kv) under scanning electron micrographs also confirmed the same results.The self-ligating brackets seems to be functionally efficient with reduced friction, aesthetically pleasing, reduced treatment and chair side time, combined with better oral hygiene maintenance and patient comfort because of absence of ligation.