Holographic analysis of the initial canine displacement produced by four different retraction springs.

OBJECTIVES

To estimate and compare the magnitude and direction of initial displacement of the canine produced by four different canine retraction springs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A freshly macerated mandible was used as an experimental model. First premolars were extracted, and strap-up was done with a 0.018 inch Roth Preadjusted Edgewise System (3M Unitek, Monrovia, Calif). The canine was subjected to loads of 4 oz, 5 oz, and 6 oz, each applied by four different canine retraction springs, that is, closed coil spring, open coil spring, PG spring, and T-loop retraction spring. The magnitude and direction of the initial displacement of the canine were studied by means of double-exposure interferometry.

RESULTS

The PG spring produced the highest initial displacement for a given force among the force systems used, followed by open coil, closed coil, and T-loop. Maximum tipping was observed with the open coil spring, followed by the PG spring, the closed coil spring, and the T-spring.

CONCLUSION

The T-loop may be preferred whenever minimal tipping is performed. The PG spring may be preferred over other springs whenever a higher magnitude of displacement is desired. Closed coil springs may be preferred whenever a reasonable magnitude of displacement is required and reasonable tipping is allowed.