Surface topography and frictional characteristics of ceramic brackets.

The surface topography and frictional characteristics of single crystal sapphire and polycrystalline alumina brackets were evaluated in both the dry and the wet state as a function of the four basic wire alloy compositions. On the premise that a particular combination of bracket, wire, and environment must be attained so that the efficiency and reproducibility of tooth movement is improved, a significant reduction in the coefficients of friction was sought. Viscometric measurements were used to show that the characteristics of saliva remained unchanged throughout the investigation. Scanning electron micrographs and laser specular reflection were studied to illustrate the general appearance and quantitative magnitude of roughnesses. Frictional measurements of couples in the dry, the wet, and again in the dry state were evaluated at five different normal loads. The outcomes of the virgin materials show that arch wire alloy, rather than bracket product type or surface roughness, influence the frictional characteristics the most and that titanium wires generally cause higher frictional resistances than either stainless steel or cobalt-chromium wires. Friction tests of specimens that were run multiple times suggest that couples comprised of nickel titanium arch wires against ceramic brackets may actually improve as a result of a break-in period.