Effect of use of antiseptics and fluorides during orthodontic treatment on working properties of NiTi archwires in levelling dental arches: A randomized controlled trial

Purpose The goal was to investigate whether the application of antiseptics and fluorides during orthodontic treatment affects the biomechanics of the levelling of dental arches by changing the working properties of nickel–titanium (NiTi) archwires. Methods The sample consisted of 60 individuals aged 12–22 years (53% females). There were 20 individuals in each experimental group: (I) individuals conducted regular oral hygiene, (II) individuals used a high concentration of fluorides for intensive prophylaxis for the first month; and (III) individuals used chlorhexidine in the same manner. NiTi alloy archwires (dimensions 0.508 × 0.508 mm) were analyzed 3 months after intraoral exposure and compared to as-received NiTi wires. Elastic modulus, yield strength, springback ratio, and modulus of resilience were calculated. Dimensions of the dental arches were analyzed when NiTi alloy (T1) was placed intraorally and after 3 months (T2). Change was quantified as the difference in dimensions (T2–T1). Anterior width-to-length ratio was used as a measure for dental arch shape. Results Intraoral exposure reduced elastic modulus, yield strength, springback ratio, modulus of resilience, loading, and unloading forces of NiTi wires ( p ≤ 0.021). Chlorhexidine mouthwash and gel with high concentration of fluorides did not change these properties more than saliva with regular hygiene. The amount of change of dental arch shape in the maxilla and mandible did not differ significantly between the experimental groups. Conclusion Using antiseptics or a high concentration of fluorides during orthodontic treatment does not significantly affect the mechanical properties of NiTi wires and would not have clinical implications in changing orthodontic biomechanics.