COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF WIRE DEFORMATION, BREAKAGE, FRICTIONAL RESISTANCE, AND PATIENT DISCOMFORT IN ORTHODONTIC ARCHWIRES: A CLINICAL STUDY

Abstract

Background:
Orthodontic treatment success significantly depends on the mechanical properties of archwires. An ideal archwire should offer optimal elasticity, minimal friction, and high resistance to deformation and breakage, all while ensuring patient comfort. This clinical study aimed to compare the performance of different types of archwires in terms of deformation, breakage, frictional resistance, and associated patient discomfort.
Materials and Methods:
A total of 60 patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment were randomly divided into three groups (n=20 each) based on the type of archwire used: Group A – Nickel-Titanium (NiTi), Group B – Stainless Steel (SS), and Group C – Beta-Titanium (TMA). Over a 12-week period, archwires were assessed for deformation and breakage during clinical follow-ups. Frictional resistance was measured using a universal testing machine, and patient discomfort was evaluated using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) after 24 hours and 7 days of wire placement.
Results:
NiTi wires showed the least wire deformation (mean value: 0.3 mm) and breakage incidence (5%) compared to SS (0.8 mm, 15%) and TMA (0.5 mm, 10%). Frictional resistance was highest in TMA wires (2.5 N), followed by NiTi (1.8 N) and SS (1.2 N). Patient discomfort scores were highest for TMA (VAS score: 6.5 ± 1.2), followed by SS (5.8 ± 1.0), and least for NiTi (4.2 ± 0.9). Statistically significant differences were noted across all parameters (p < 0.05).
Conclusion:
Nickel-Titanium archwires demonstrated superior clinical performance with lower deformation, minimal breakage, reduced friction, and better patient comfort. TMA wires, while offering moderate deformation resistance, caused more discomfort and higher friction, suggesting a need for cautious use during initial treatment phases.