Evaluating the Effect of Air Abrasive Polishing on Friction and Surface Micromorphology of Ceramic Brackets Using Different Wires

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the Resistance to Sliding (RS) provided by ceramic
(Perfect clear) sapphire ceramic brackets using round 2 types of orthodontic wires (Fiber-Reinforced Polymer
Composite (FRPC) and Epoxy fully coated Stainless-Steel), before and after the use of sodium bicarbonate
airborne particle abrasion, in an experimental model with 3 non levelled brackets and to evaluate the surface
micromorphology of these brackets by means of scanning electron microscopy.
Materials and Methods: 0ne commercial brands of ceramic brackets were evaluated. The fourty specimens
were divided into two groups (n = 20) according to the two type of arch wires and each group was divided
into four subgroup of five specimens according to the application or not of sodium bicarbonate airborne
particle abrasion for (5, 10 and 20) seconds. A device adapted to a universal testing machine was used to
simulate the movement of retraction in sliding mechanics, measuring the traction force needed to slide 10
mm of the wire over the test specimen brackets. The test speed was 5 mm/min. The data were analyzed by
two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey test.
Conclusions: It may be concluded that it is not recommended to apply airborne particle abrasion on the slots
of ceramic.