Bonded orthodontic retainers: the wire-composite interface

David R. Bearn, John F. McCabe, Peter H. Gordon, John C. Aird

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    67 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    The bonded orthodontic retainer constructed from multistrand wire and composite is an efficient esthetic retainer, which can be maintained long-term. Clinical failures of bonded orthodontic retainers, most commonly at the wire/composite interface, have been reported. This in vitro investigation aimed to evaluate selected multistrand wires and composite materials that are available for use in the construction of bonded fixed retainers. An in vitro model was developed to simulate the forces encountered at the wire/composite interface. No significant difference was detected between different multistrand wire types and diameters with regard to retention in composite. Wires were placed in one of three groups according to surface characteristics identified with scanning electron microscopy. Increasing the thickness of composite overlying the wire increased the force required to detach the wire from the composite. Thickness of composite greater than 1.0 mm overlying the wire may give little clinical advantage. Greater force was required to detach the wire from Concise Orthodontic (3M Unitek) than any other composite tested. In vitro abrasion resistance testing found Heliosit Orthodontic (Vivadent) and Right On (TP Orthodontics, Inc.) to have poor abrasion resistance, whereas Concise Orthodontic and Transbond (3M Unitek) had abrasion resistance comparable with restorative composites. Clinical recommendations are made based on these findings.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)67-74
    Number of pages8
    JournalAmerican Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
    Volume111
    Issue number1
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Jan 1997

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Bonded orthodontic retainers: the wire-composite interface'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this