Torque Comparison Between Two Passive Self-Ligating Brackets with Respect to Interbracket Wire Dimensions and Types: A Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the expression of torque between 2 passive self-ligating brackets by simulating different clinical situations using finite element analysis. Material and Methods: Two passive self-ligating brackets, that is, Damon Q (Ormco, Glendora, California) and Smart Clip (3M Unitek, Monrovia, California), were 3D modeled using micro-computed tomography. ANSYS V14.5 software was used for analysis. Archwire and bracket interactions were simulated to measure torque expression by changing wire alloys (stainless steel [SS] and titanium molybdenum [TMA]) and interbracket dimensions. Results: Damon Q brackets generated higher torque values compared to Smart Clip brackets with both SS and TMA wires. Damon Q brackets generated the highest torquing moment of 25.72 Nmm and 7.45 Nmm, while Smart Clip brackets generated 22.25 Nmm and 7.31 Nmm with 0.019 × 0.025″ SS and TMA wires, respectively, at an interbracket distance of 12 mm. Torquing moments decreased for Damon Q and Smart Clip brackets when wire length increased from 12 mm to 16 mm. Conclusion: Damon Q with 0.019 × 0.025″wires exhibited superior torquing characteristics as compared to Smart Clip brackets with similar archwires.

Torque moments and stress analysis in two passive self-ligating brackets across different incisor inclinations: A 3-dimensional finite element study

“…They concluded that self-ligating brackets, particularly passive self-ligating brackets with 0.022 slots, did not favour torque control due to the larger actual play caused by oversized slots and the inability to press the archwire into the bottom of the slot. 23 Similar results were shown in a study conducted by Morina et al 24 However, a study by Thushar et al compared torque expression between passive and active self-ligating bracket systems and concluded that passive self-ligating brackets, such as Damon Q, exhibited superior torquing characteristics compared to active self-ligating brackets with similar archwires. 25 The variation in results is likely due to the equipment used for torque measurement: previous studies employed orthodontic measurement and simulation system (OMSS), while Thushar et al used FEM.…”

Comparison of Pain Levels on Patients Undergoing Fixed Orthodontic Treatment with 2 Different Self-Ligating Bracket Systems

“…Increasing the wire length of brackets increases the elastic deformation capability of the archwire. 30 The SmartClip SL3 brackets used in our work were wider mesiodistally than Damon Q brackets. The difference in pain perception results obtained in our study may be due to the width differences in the brackets.…”