IMPORTANCE OF FRICTIONAL FORCES IN ORTHODONTIC TREATMENTS: A REVIEW ARTICLE

Authors: Ahaan Chaudhary, Merry Goyal, Sanjay Mittal, Isha Aggarwal, Pallavi Vishavkarma

DOI: 10.18231/j.ijohd.11142.1687949377

Keywords: Frictional force, Sliding mechanics, Orthodontic tooth movement

Abstract: The resistance to sliding in Orthodontics is multifactorial. It is directly influenced by the types of materials used and affects orthodontic tooth movement efficiency. The biological variables influencing friction seem to have been overlooked by orthodontists. Simple factors such as the accumulation of debris over the wire surface and the brackets biodegradation registered after intraoral use may be as important as the type of material used when friction in Orthodontics is considered. Recent manufacturing techniques of new and innovative orthodontic materials have led to lower frictional resistance than the same products tested in the past. It is difficult to accurately determine the many variables affecting the frictional resistance in orthodontic sliding mechanics in a clinical situation. This is further complicated by the fact that there are such a variety of orthodontic appliances, as well as a vast variability in the biological parameters of patients. It has been suggested that, clinically, these forces, because of frictional resistance, may be overestimated and are less than what is measured in steady state laboratory experiments. Reduction in the applied force because of friction during sliding mechanics has been recognized for some time. More importantly, to prevent undesired tooth movement and to ensure optimal tooth movement, friction must be understood and controlled.