Bacterial biofilm accumulation on self-ligating vs. elastomeric metal brackets: A review study

Abstract

Objectives: This study's objective is to analyze the literature and determine whether or not self-ligating metal brackets collect more or less bacterial biofilm than elastomeric metal brackets. The assessment of scientific quality is complicated by the disparate methods used to test biofilm adhesion on brackets. Review: Published studies attest to the high caliber of the research and the methodological soundness of a subset of the papers in the literature. It may submit them for review to the scientific and clinical communities. Conventional elastomeric brackets were found to create more biofilm retention; however, another study found no statistically significant difference between the two types of brackets (elastomeric vs. self-ligating); still another study found that elastomeric brackets had less bacterial biofilm accumulation than self-ligating brackets because self-ligating brackets have bracket channels. Conclusion: The decision utilized by orthodontists to substitute self-ligating brackets for elastomeric ones in their clinical practice with the goal of enhancing hygiene and reducing plaque accumulation is not yet supported by scientific data.