Force degradation in orthodontic elastic chains

Abstract

Purpose: This in vitro study aimed to analyze the force degradation of four commercial brands of orthodontic elastics chain (Morelli, Ormco, TP, and Unitek) over 21 days.

Methods: The elastics chains were stretched and maintained at a standardized distance equivalent to a force of 150 g. The amount of force generated by the elastics chains were measured by using a dynamometer (ZEUZAN 300 g) at intervals of 30 minutes, 7, 14, and 21 days. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test at the 5% level of significance.

Results: There was a reduction of 5% to 15% in the amount of force generated by the elastic chains after 30 minutes and of 22% to 47% after 21 days of elastic activation.

Conclusion: Unitek chains displayed the highest percentage of force degradation, while TP exhibited the smallest percentage of force degradation and showed the greatest stability at all intervals tested.