Effect of Sodium Fluoride Mouthwash on the Frictional Resistance of Orthodontic Wires

OBJECTIVES: The friction between the brackets and orthodontic wire during sliding mechanics inflicts difficulties such as decreasing the applied force and tooth movement and also the loss of anchorage. Therefore, many studies have focused on the factors that affect the friction. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of 0.05% sodium fluoride mouthwash on the friction between orthodontic brackets and wire. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four types of orthodontic wires including rectangular standard stainless steel (SS), titanium molybdenum alloy (TMA), nickel-titanium (NiTi) and copper-nickel-titanium (Cu-NiTi) were selected. In each group, half of the samples were immersed in 0.05% sodium fluoride mouthwash and the others were immersed in artificial saliva for 10 hours. An elastomeric ligature was used for ligating the wires to brackets. The frictional test was performed in a universal testing machine at the speed of 10 mm/minute. Two-way ANOVA was used for statistical analysis of the friction rate. RESULTS: The friction rate was significantly higher after immersion in 0.05% sodium fluoride mouthwash in comparison with artificial saliva (P=0.00). Cu-NiTi wire showed the highest friction value followed by TMA, NiTi and SS wires. CONCLUSIONS: According to the results of the current study, 0.05% sodium fluoride mouthwash increased the frictional characteristics of all the evaluated orthodontic wires.