The influence of simulated aging on the mechanical properties of orthodontic elastomeric chains without an intermodular link

Thermoset and thermoplastic elastomeric chain comparative strength: An in vitro study

“…Each elastomeric chain is doubled in initial length stretching from 10 mm to 20 mm based on the average distance between the wing mesial cannula brackets and the premolar wing of the premolar brackets, as in the study of patterns of decreasing elastomeric chain strength. [4,9] The results of research conducted are consistent with research conducted by Mirhashemi et al where the decrease in strength after the first 24 h occurred at 20.7%-31.2% in elastomeric chains of thermoplastic materials and 9.3%-12.4% in elastomeric chains of thermoset materials. [5,8] The greatest decrease in strength that occurs after the first 24 h is also in accordance with the research conducted by Yagura et al, [10] where the greater the initial strength given to elastomeric chains, the greater the decrease in strength that occurs.…”

Do mouthwashes with and without bleaching agents degrade the force of elastomeric chains?

“…Nevertheless, these materials are not considered ideal, as the force they generate diminishes gradually during the activation period. 12,13 Therefore, various studies 3,[8][9][10][11] have sought to establish the mechanical and environmental factors that contribute to the force degradation of different orthodontic elastics. Mouthwashes are commonly used by orthodontic patients; thus, it is vital to investigate how mouthwashes affect orthodontic devices.…”

“…Kersey et al 17 evaluated the characteristics of force decline of interarch elastics, with and without latex, within a normal range of salivary pH levels and observed no significant correlation between pH and reduction in force. Dittmer et al 12 investigated the influence of artificial aging on the mechanical properties of orthodontic elastomeric chains (power chains) without an intermodular link. They found that initial force levels exceeded the desired orthodontic forces.…”

Do alcoholic beverages interfere in the force of orthodontic elastics?

“…In 2012, Dittmer et al 22 reported that the expected reduction in the level of initial force during the first 24 hours after the extension of the elastic chains is 50% to 70%, and 30% to 40% of the initial level of force after 28 days. This partly coincides with the results found in this study, in which it was possible to observe that there was a statistical reduction in force in the first 24 hours, both in the control and experimental groups, except for the group treated with wine, and that the entire reduction in force in the experimental groups occurred in up to 14 days.…”