An evaluation of the accuracy of bracket positioning with and without loupes using 3Shape Ortho Analyzer software

OBJECTIVE: The accuracy of bracket positioning is very important for successful orthodontic treatment. Precisely placed brackets aid in the enhancement of treatment outcomes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the accuracy of bracket positioning with and without dental loupes and compare this method with bracket positioning achieved using the 3Shape Ortho Analyzer. METHODS: A single blinded, split-mouth, randomized and controlled trial was conducted in the Department of Orthodontics. Three-dimensional (3D) scanned models of the maxillary arches of the subjects were obtained using 3Shape Ortho Analyzer software and virtual setups were prepared. Right and left quadrants of the maxillary arch of the 10 subjects were randomly allocated for manual bonding with loupes or without loupes. The manually bonded maxillary arch was then scanned and 3D models were obtained; these were then compared with bracket positioning achieved with the 3Shape Ortho Analyzer. In the two quadrants, deviations in the position of each bonded bracket was compared in the mesio-gingival, disto-gingival, mesio-occlusal, disto-occlusal, distal and mesial areas and then further compared with the virtual set up. Finally, bracket positioning errors were measured. RESULTS: An independent sample t-test was performed to compare both the area-wise and teeth-wise mean error in bracket positioning with loupes and without loupes which showed no statistically significant difference. CONCLUSION: There was no significant difference in bracket positioning with or without loupes. The results of this current study showed that bracket positioning can be performed with loupes or without loupes.