The effect of bracket type and ligation method upon forces exerted by orthodontic archwires

The effects of bracket type and ligation method upon the forces exerted at 1.5-mm deflection by three archwire materials were measured in a simulated clinical situation. Significant force differences were found when archwires were used in standard edgewise or straightwire brackets, respectively, and also when Alastik modules were used for ligation instead of steel ligatures.