| In the field of orthodontics, it is necessary to minimize friction during the stage of treatment, referred to as sliding mechanics, in which spaces remain to be closed between the teeth that already have been aligned and leveled. This investigation addressed some of the multiple surfaces in contact during simulated sliding studies and monitored the range of frictional forces that might be experienced during clinical tooth movement. Four separate surface conditions were evaluated in specimens where SS brackets were coupled with SS and TMA wire. Coupled archwires and brackets were tested ‘as-received’ from the manufacturer, as the control samples and the archwires received either a Radio Frequency Glow Discharge treatment (RFGDT), were polished with HiShine™ or were ligated with SuperSlick Ties™. For each of the 4 groups, there were 8 SS wire/SS bracket couples as well as 8 TMA wire/SS bracket couples tested, with all combinations secured in frictional contact with elastomeric ligatures. Special jigs were developed to allow measurements of the forces of friction of the bracket/wire couples after the different surface preparations. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
