Application of Elastomeric Chains in Orthodontics: Past, Present and Future

Abstract

Context: One of the most important aims in orthodontic treatment is to apply a light continuous force to achieve maximum effective tooth movement with minimal side effects (optimal tooth movement). It is obvious that elastomeric chains are the most popular method of space closure, but they undergo force decay during time. Force decay behavior of elastomeric chains is influenced by various factors. It is crucial for every practitioner to know about these products and factors affecting them. Evidence Acquisition: So we searched English articles published in Pubmed between 2005 -2016 with keyword "orthodontics, elastomeric chain". Results: 25 articles were selected for comprehensive reading according to the inclusion criteria. Some factors such as aging process, production technique, pre-stretching effect, design and type of chains, in-vivo effects and microbial contamination were discussed. Conclusions: By reviewing these articles, we know more about force decay pattern of elastomeric chains. Most of articles said the same force decay pattern for these elastomeric products. We know more about environmental conditions affect their features. This can help practitioners to use chains , in a better way.

Thermoset and thermoplastic elastomeric chain comparative strength: An in vitro study

“…[4,9] The results of research conducted are consistent with research conducted by Mirhashemi et al where the decrease in strength after the first 24 h occurred at 20.7%-31.2% in elastomeric chains of thermoplastic materials and 9.3%-12.4% in elastomeric chains of thermoset materials. [5,8] The greatest decrease in strength that occurs after the first 24 h is also in accordance with the research conducted by Yagura et al, [10] where the greater the initial strength given to elastomeric chains, the greater the decrease in strength that occurs. Buchmann et al [3] and Mirhashemi et al [8] suggested that the decrease in strength up to the seventh day was caused by absorption of saliva and formation, which coincided with hydrogen adhesion between water molecules and elastomeric macromolecules.…”

“…[5,8] The greatest decrease in strength that occurs after the first 24 h is also in accordance with the research conducted by Yagura et al, [10] where the greater the initial strength given to elastomeric chains, the greater the decrease in strength that occurs. Buchmann et al [3] and Mirhashemi et al [8] suggested that the decrease in strength up to the seventh day was caused by absorption of saliva and formation, which coincided with hydrogen adhesion between water molecules and elastomeric macromolecules. [3,8] The decrease in the strength of elastomeric chains is affected by the continuous absorption of fluids by elastomeric chains, which causes chain slippage and permanent changes in elastomeric chains.…”

“…Several studies explain mechanical and environmental factors that can affect the decrease in the strength of various elastomeric chains. [8] This study was carried out in vitro with experiments adjusted to the conditions in the oral cavity. Temperature and pH are adjusted according to the situation in the mouth, which is 37°C and saliva pH 6.7 by immersing all the samples into a container and stored in an incubator.…”

Implementation of Recent Infection Prevention Procedures Published by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Difficulties and Problems in Orthodontic Offices

“…Recently, some difficulties on reconditioning of elastic chains and ligatures have been reported and discussed by different authors (7,37,68).…”

Effect of Bleaching Mouthwash on Force Decay of Orthodontic Elastomeric Chains

“…Several factors could influence force decay of these chains. 1,[5][6][7]16,17 The current study was performed to assess the effect bleaching mouthwash on force decay of elastomeric chains. The results revealed a significant effect of these mouthwashes 1 and 28 days after activation.…”