Force degradation of orthodontic elastomeric chains--a product comparison study

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Synthetic elastic modules are widely used in orthodontics.
• Force decay in these materials presents a clinical challenge, impacting treatment efficacy.
• Understanding material behavior under simulated oral conditions is crucial for clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the force decay patterns of three commercial elastomeric chains.
• To compare the performance of different elastomeric module lengths (short vs. long).
• To assess the impact of simulated oral environment conditions on force degradation.

Main Methods:

• Three commercially available elastomeric chains were tested: Ormco Power Chain II, Rocky Mountain Energy Chain, and TP Elast-O Chain.
• Samples were subjected to thermal cycling and storage at 37°C for 21 days to simulate an oral environment.
• Force measurements were taken initially and after 21 days to quantify force decay.

Main Results:

• Thermal cycling resulted in less force decay compared to storage at 37°C.
• A significant difference (p < 0.01) in mean force was observed between short and long modules for all materials.
• Modules with higher initial forces (short modules) exhibited less force decay over 21 days.

Conclusions:

• Elastomeric module length significantly influences force decay, with shorter modules maintaining force better.
• Environmental factors, such as thermal cycling, affect force degradation in orthodontic elastics.
• Clinical selection of elastomeric modules should consider initial force levels and expected decay for optimal treatment outcomes.