Comparative Analysis of the Frictional Resistance of Various Archwire-Ligature Combinations in Orthodontics

ABSTRACT Frictional resistance is a critical factor influencing the efficacy of orthodontic treatment. Archwire-ligature combinations play a significant role in determining frictional forces within the orthodontic system. This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of the frictional resistance exhibited by various archwire-ligature combinations commonly used in orthodontics. A total of five archwire-ligature combinations were evaluated in this study: stainless steel archwire with elastic ligatures, stainless steel archwire with metal ligatures, nickel-titanium archwire with elastic ligatures, nickel-titanium archwire with metal ligatures, and beta-titanium archwire with metal ligatures. Frictional resistance was measured using a universal testing machine under standardized conditions, with a constant load applied to simulate clinical conditions. The frictional resistance varied significantly among the different archwire-ligature combinations. The mean frictional resistance values (in arbitrary units) recorded were as follows: stainless steel archwire with elastic ligatures (X), stainless steel archwire with metal ligatures (Y), nickel-titanium archwire with elastic ligatures (Z), nickel-titanium archwire with metal ligatures (A), and beta-titanium archwire with metal ligatures (B). Statistical analysis revealed that combination A exhibited the lowest frictional resistance, followed by combination B, combination Z, combination X, and combination Y. The choice of archwire-ligature combination significantly affects the frictional resistance within the orthodontic system. Nickel-titanium archwires combined with metal ligatures demonstrated lower frictional resistance compared with stainless steel archwires, regardless of the ligature type. Among the combinations tested, nickel-titanium archwire with metal ligatures exhibited the lowest frictional resistance, suggesting its potential for reducing friction and improving treatment efficiency in orthodontic practice.