Canine retraction rate and angulation with 0.017”X0.025” versus Canine retraction rate and angulation with 0.017”X0.025” versus 0.016”X0.022” stainless steel arch wire with a power arm 0.016”X0.022” stainless steel arch wire with a power arm

Abstract

Background: The dimensions of the arch wire affect its stiffness and the play between the wire and bracket. Canine retraction over stiffer arch wires limits the degree of canine tipping. However, the greater the wire dimensions, the greater the resistance to sliding. Frictional resistance is known to delay tooth movement. Aim: The aim of this controlled clinical trial was to compare canine retraction rate and angulation with 0.017”X0.025” versus 0.016”X0.022” stainless steel arch wire with a power arm. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four Class II malocclusion patients (age 13.8± 2.6 years) participated in this study. The teeth were leveled and aligned. Bilateral maxillary first premolars were extracted. In group A, the canines were retracted over 0.017”X0.025” wires. In group B, they were retracted using 0.016”X0.022” wires with a vertical power arm. The retraction force was 150g generated by elastomeric chains. The canine retraction rate and angulation were measured at the end of six months. The rates in the two groups were compared with the t-test and the angulation with the Mann Whitney test. Results: canine retraction rate was 4.64±1.5 in group A and 5.24±1.45 in group B. The canine angulation was 6.41±5.14 and 6.73±6.0 for group A and B, respectively. Conclusion: No difference was observed in the canine retraction rate or angulation with 0.017”X0.025” versus 0.016”X0.022” stainless steel arch wire with a power arm.