Effect of Different Beverages on the Elastic Properties of NiTi Orthodontic Wires: An In-Vitro Study

Abstract

Objective To investigate the effects of 8 different beverages (coffee, energy drink, milk, mineral water, orange juice, soft drink, tea and orange soda) on elastic properties of Nickel Titanium (NiTi) orthodontic archwires. Materials and Methods In this in-vitro study, 0.016x0.022 NiTi archwires were assigned to different immersion groups. The archwires were immersed in the corresponding solution for 5 minutes per week for a 12-week period. After immersion, all wires were tested for their physical properties using 3-point bending test to determine the maximum loading, flexural strength and strain, and modulus of elasticity. Results A statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in mean max load between groups was found with the control group having higher values than all immersed groups. Flexure stress, flexure strain and modulus of elasticity showed a statistically significant difference between the groups with the control group, again, having the highest value. Conclusion This study’s findings found a significant change after the immersion of the wires in flexural strength, strain, and other mechanical properties. The orthodontist must educate the patient regarding the adverse effect of these drinks and be aware of the potential effects on NiTi properties when left in the mouth for extended periods. Clinical relevance: Investigating the potential effects of commonly consumed beverages on NiTi archwires can help the clinician in understanding the possible consequences of using the same NiTi archwire for multiple activation visits.