Time efficiency of self-ligating vs conventional brackets in orthodontics: effect of appliances and ligating systems.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to compare the speed of archwire change between self-ligating (SL) brackets and conventional brackets with elastic and stainless steel (SS) ligatures.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fifty orthodontic patients, divided into five groups according to the type of fixed appliance and ligating system used (10 subjects=Time 2 SL brackets; 10 subjects = SmartClip SL brackets; 10 subjects = In-Ovation SL brackets; 10 subjects = conventional brackets with SS ligatures, 10 subjects = conventional brackets with elastic ligatures) were included in the study. The clinical phases were carried out by a unique operator experienced in both conventional and SL brackets techniques. Aligning and levelling were completed for each subject. The time needed to remove and ligate .019 x .025 SS archwires in both dental arches was measured for the 5 groups of patients. Independent sample t-test and ANOVA analyses were used.

RESULTS

SL brackets had a significantly shorter mean archwire ligation and removal times when compared with conventional brackets with elastic and SS ligatures. The ligation time in the lower arch was affected by the type of SL appliance used. Systems with elastic ligatures had a shorter mean archwire ligation time than systems with SS ligatures. No differences were found between maxillary and mandibular arches in wire ligation and removal times.

CONCLUSIONS

The type of bracket has influence on chairside time. SL systems showed a quicker and more efficient wire removal and placement for late orthodontic treatment phases.