Seminars in Orthodontics

VOL 9, NO 4

DECEMBER 2003

Introduction
he friction generated by an archwire and
bracket is influenced by the interaction of
many variables. Studies of the myriad of parameters, such as bracket composition, bracket
width, interbracket distance, slot size, arch wire
type, arch wire size, second order angulation,
degree of torsion, ligation, and wet or dry environment, have helped our understanding by
identifying trends or patterns of friction. Conflicting results only reflect the difficulty in separating the effects of individual variables and the
need for additional studies to compare, contrast,
and relate these variables. Some of the confusion with respect to published results is the lack
of adequately controlled studies. In addition,
there is no uniformity with regards to friction
testing apparatus. The ability to quantify and
control friction will lead to less anchorage loss,
more predictable tooth movement, and the use
of ideal force levels to overcome friction and
optimize physiological tooth movement.
It is imperative to preface this issue of Seminars in Orthodontics by stating that not all friction
in the orthodontic appliance is detrimental to
tooth movement. Without friction in the appliance, tooth movement, such as the correction of
rotated teeth, set-up of anchor units, or upright-

ing of angulated teeth, may be impossible; compare the classic example of the steam locomotive
spinning its wheels on a greasy railroad, but rolls
forward when sand is added between the steel
wheel and the smooth rail through the friction
created by the steel-sand interface. Thus, the
bracket-archwire binding is required to create
uprighting forces necessary to ensure tooth
translation with sliding mechanics. Moreover,
knowledge of the friction generated in a specific
combination of bracket and wire allows the clinician to make adjustments in the appliance to
attain certain specific tooth movements.
The objective of the present contribution of
Seminars in Orthodontics to the orthodontic literature is to ensure that the reader is familiarized
with friction terminology, available literature reviewing friction testing, the general concept of
friction and the effects seen with various combinations of brackets and wires, and a glimpse into
the future with intraoral testingan endeavor to
combine physics, biomechanics, and biology.
Enjoy the reading of this fascinating aspect of
the orthodontic discipline.

2003 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

doi:10.1016/j.sodo.2003.08.001

Seminars in Orthodontics, Vol 9, No 4 (December), 2003: p 217

Dr. P. Lionel Sadowsky

Editor
Dr. P. Emile Rossouw
Guest Editor

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