Orthodontic Brackets and Wires Wear in Different Conditions: A Review

Abstract

Metallic ions release from orthodontic brackets and wires mostly depends on quality (chemical composition) and the medium to which it is exposed, e.g. acid, alkali, substances with high fluorine concentration, etc. Among a heterogenous group of research, it was reported that stainless steel, which is used in orthodontic stuff, is the material that suffers most wear. It was apparent that dissolutions with acid pH, alcohols, fluorides, and chlorides aggravate the orthodontic material corrosion. Otherwise, nickel release from brackets and wires can cause allergic reactions to patients. This review addressed corrosion and wear of orthodontic brackets, wires and arches exposed to different media: beverages (juices), mouthwashes, artificial saliva, etc., and the possible health effects that can be caused by releasing of metallic ions under several conditions.