Effect of Different Reconditioning Methods on Slot Dimensions, Bracket Base Thickness and Base Surface Area on Stainless Steel Brackets: An in vitro Study

Aim and objective: This study evaluated the effects of cumulative reconditioning on standard stainless steel edgewise brackets of original slot dimensions of 0.022" × 0.028", bracket base thickness of 0.4 mm 2 and base surface area of 11.702 mm 2 . Materials and methods: The sample for this study consists of thirty new maxillary central incisor brackets. Brackets were divided into one control group (Group A, unrecycled) and two experimental groups (Groups B and C). Each group comprised of ten samples. Experimental groups were subjected to specific reconditioning methods (modified BigJane methods and Buchman methods) for three consecutive times, subsequent to which dimensional changes were measured and recorded. The bracket slot dimensions and bracket base thickness were measured by universal measuring microscope and base surface area by digital vernier caliper. Statistical analysis: The statistical analysis done were Kruskal- Wallis test (H), Wilcoxon rank test, Wilcoxon rank signed test. Results: There was change in the slot dimensions in both the reconditioning methods, but the Big-Jane method showed a greater increase in width as compared to the Buchman method. The changes in the slot depth, bracket base thickness and bracket base surface area in both the reconditioning methods showed clinically insignificant changes during first reconditioning. Conclusion: The result of this study shows that single reconditioning of bracket is advisable. Clinical significance: During first reconditioning of the bracket statistically significant changes do occurs in slot width but clinically least significance alteration occurs in other dimensions of the brackets so, there will be clinically insignificant play occurs, thus torque value will not change.