Introduction and objective:

Friction in orthodontics is produced by direct contact between the bracket, the wire, and the ligature. Friction reduces efficiency in orthodontic treatments. This research aims to compare the frictional resistance between conventional ceramic brackets and passive self-ligating ceramic brackets using a finite element method (FEM).

Materials and methods:

A total of 810 slidings were performed, combining conventional and self-ligating ceramic brackets, and stainless steel, nickel-titanium, and b-titanium alloy orthodontic wires of 0.016inch, 0.017x0.025inch, and 0.019x0.025inch. The maximum static frictional resistance (MSFR) mean was compared between the different brackets, wire, ligature, and bracket angulation combinations of 0°, 7°, and 13°.

Results:

The variables with the highest frictional behavior were 13°, b-titanium alloy, 0.017x0.025inch, and conventional ceramic brackets with an elastic ligatures.

Conclusion:

FEM is an adequate alternative for the prediction of MSRF in a various brackets, wire, ligating, and angulation combinations. The method allowed defining lower frictional resistance for self-ligating brackets, as well as a direct relationship between the increase in the angle and contact area between bracket and wire, with higher values of sliding resistance. It was established that a larger wire size does not imply a higher area of contact with the bracket.

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