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Total recall: an update on orthodontic wires

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Total Recall: An Update On Orthodontic Wires

By H. Jyothikiran MDS; Ravi Shantharaj MDS; Panchali Batra MDS; Pradeep Subbiah MDS; Bhagya Lakshmi
MDS; Vishal Kudagi MDS

Abstract: Orthodontic therapy is a force management procedure largely based on use of arch wires for storing and distributing
biologically tolerable forces by means of which position of teeth is altered.1,2,3 Advances in material science and technology has resulted in an
array of newer arch wire materials, opening new vistas in orthodontic treatment. Materials with widely diverging properties are in the market
today and their usage has profound implications on appliance mechanics, and are very much different from stainless steel which is popular
even today. The dentists who practise orthodontics have to therefore clearly outline the phases of treatment and select the arch wire most suited
for attaining specific treatment goals.1,2
Key words: Arch wires, Orthodontics.

ntroduction NiTi, Neo-Sentalloy etc. By taking advantage of the body

Unravelling of crowded teeth, is an important temperature and setting the alloys transformation temperature
early treatment goal and to accomplish this several (Af ) for martensitic transformation, precise control of
orthodontic arch wires are currently available. The memory phenomenon can be affected. This is called “Varying
first generation wires comprised of Nitinol followed by TMA, Transformation Temperature Orthodontics.”
super elastic Japanese and Chinese NiTi. Body heat activated There was a constant unrelented quest for a better wire
NiTi wires are the current trend. The most recent of these which can deliver optimal orthodontic force, has lead to
super elastic wires is Copper NiTi wire, which clinically shows invention of a lot of innovative wires. Rapid strides in the
maximal super elastic range and very low hysterisis.1, 2 field of arch wire material producing in its wake a plethora of
The finishing stages of orthodontic treatment necessitate arch wires varying widely in material geometry, configuration,
wires with very special properties and the recently introduced manufacturing process and physical properties.
Niobium – Titanium alloy wires are a distinct step in this
direction. Their unique load-deflection property and formability Criteria of an Ideal Arch Wire5
facilities occlusal finishing to contemporary orthodontic Several characteristics of orthodontic wires are considered
treatment goals.1, 2 desirable for optimum performance during treatment. These
In the period prior to seventies when gold and stainless steel include (Figure 1):
were the only available materials, increments in wire stiffness • High strength • Low surface friction
during treatment were instituted by progressively increasing • Low stiffness • Poor biohostability
the cross section of stainless steel wires i.e., from small to large • High range • Resilience
and its geometry i.e., round and rectangular. Complicated loop • Large spring back • Weldable and solderable
designs were required to alter the stiffness characteristics of the • High formability • Esthetics
wire for a chosen tooth movement and small wires were used • High stored energy • Economical
for light forces and larger wires for heavy forces. This strategy • Biocompatibility • Corrosion resistance
of wire selection’ and usage as Dr.Burstone refers is “Variable • Environmental stability
Cross Section Orthodontics.”
In the mid seventies, a host of new arch wire materials
became available i.e., Nitinol and Beta titanium. With the
availability of wires with widely varying moduli it becomes
possible for the clinician to select wires with lower moduli for
the early stages of treatment and increase the moduli to higher
levels towards the finish of the treatment. It takes advantage
of different materials while maintaining the same or similar
cross sections. This approach has been referred by Dr.Burstone
as “Variable Modulus Orthodontics.” There are definite
advantages in using wires, of varying materials in optimizing
control of tooth movement.4
In the 90’sNiTi arch wires that have super elastic and
thermodynamic properties were available that is Copper Figure 1. Criteria of an Ideal Arch Wire

IJO  VOL. 25  NO. 3  FALL 2014 39

 Classification of Orthodontic Wires the use of smaller diameter wires for alignment procedures where
Gold alloys lower forces are indicated. It has greater spring back than gold
Stainless Steel alloys and excellent formability and corrosion resistance (although
a) Multistranded /Braided wires the solder joints do corrode in the oral cavity) and can be
b) Australian arch wires soldered.7,8,9
Cobalt Chromium alloy/Elgiloy • Recommended temperature time schedule for stress
Nickel Titanium alloys relieving Stainless Steel is 750°F (399°C) for 11
a) Conventional NiTi/M- NiTi minutes.8,9
b)Pseudo Elastic NiTi /A-NiTi • Large modulus of elasticity and its associated high
c) Thermo Dynamic Ni-Ti stiffness of Stainless Steel necessitate the use of sma1ler
d) Graded Thermo Dynamic NiTi wires for alignment of displaced teeth.
e) Chinese NiTi • Reduction in wire size results in a poorer fit in the
f ) Japanese NiTi bracket and may cause loss of control during tooth
g) Copper NiTi movement.
Alpha Titanium • Yield strength to elastic modulus ratio (Y s/E) indicates
Beta Titanium a lower spring back of Stainless Steel than those of
Combination wires newer titanium based alloys.
Aesthetics wires • The stored, energy of activated Stainless Steel wires
a) Coated wires is substantially less than that of Beta-Titanium and
b) Composite wires Nitinol which implies that Stainless Steel wires
Titanium Niobium and Timolium wires produce higher forces that dissipate over shorter
periods of time thus requiring frequent activations or
Gold Wires arch wire changes.
Gold wires were first used in orthodontic practice, although • Joinability with Stainless Steel is possible by soldering
these noble metal wires have minimal use currently because of but may be demanding. Can be fused together by
their much greater cost and low yield strength compared to the welding but requires reinforcement with solder.
popular base metal wires.3 • Corrosion resistances is good although solder joints
may corrode in the oral cavity.
Stainless Steel Alloys • Although the amounts of nickel and chromium
In the mid 21st century, stainless steel was applied to released are below the average dietary intake, the
dentistry and orthodontics although it was between 1903 and liberated element & may sensitize patients or produce
1921 that Harry Brearley, F .M. Becket, Benno Strauss and reactions in already sensitized persons.
Edward Maurer shared the honors for the development of the • Low levels of bracket/wire friction have been reported
material. Austenitic stainless steel with its greater strength, with experiments using Stainless Steel wires -offer lower
higher modulus of elasticity, good resistance to corrosion, resistance to tooth movement than other orthodontic
moderate cost was introduced as an orthodontic wire in 1929 alloys.
and shortly afterward it gained popularity over gold. 1, 2, 3
When at least 10 to 13% chromium was present in the Stainless Steel Variants1, 2
alloy, a coherent oxide layer formed that passivated the surface, A.J. Wilcok Wires:3,10,11
thereby rendering the alloy “stainless.” Mr. Arthur Wilcock of Whittlesea, Victoria, Australia originally
Stainless steels were strong, typically about five times developed this special orthodontic wire at the request of Dr. P.R.
stronger than structural girders and their stiffness were 93% to Begg nearly 40 years ago. Available in a variety of diameter sizes,
100% that of conventional carbon steels. As the ‘50s came to a grades of resiliency, coiled or in St. Lengths. St. Length wire is
close, Rocky mountain orthodontics was offering two tempers of usually not considered to be as resilient as coiled wire due to the
cold-worked stainless steels.6 straightening process. Each grade is easily identified by a colored
1. Standard label (Figure 1).
2. Extra large grade.
American orthodontics advertises three grades of Stainless steel wire;
1. Standard
2. Gold tone
3. Super gold tone a b
Commonly used types of stainless steel are AISI 302 and 304
Stainless Steel. Type 304 has slightly lower carbon and higher
chromium specification. Most of their strength is desired from
cold working and Carbon interstitial hardening. 1, 2, 3
The only heat treatment used with this wire is for stress
c d
relieving -typically done at 850°F for less than ten minutes.
They have high yield strength. The high modulus necessitates Figure 1: Aj Wilcock Wire Spools. a)Special Plus; b) Premium Plus;
c) Supreme; d) Premium.

40 IJO  VOL. 25  NO. 3  FALL 2014

Unique properties of Wilcock wires
• It is an ultra high tensile austenitic steel arch wire
• Zero stress relaxation(allows the wire to maintain its force
over a longer period of time, yet resists permanent deformation
from elastic load)
This wire forms backbone of Begg’s appliance. Color coding of
the wires are as follows (Figure 2):
• Regular-White Label
• Regular Plus-Green Label
• Special-Black Label
• Special plus-Orange Label
• Extra Special Plus-Blue Label
• Premium-Purple Label
• Premium Plus-Orange Label
• Supreme-Yellow Label
• Supreme Plus-Cream Label
The wires are available in following dimensions and grades
Regular/RegularPlus/Special/Special Plus/Extra Special Plus/
Premium-0.016”.0.018”, 0.020”, 0.022”.
Premium Plus-0.010”0.012’, 0.014”, 0.016”, 0.018”.
Supreme-0.008”,0.009”,0.010”,0.011”,0.012”.
Premium wires
To maintain arch forms.
Premium Plus
To fabricate up-righting and torquing springs.
Supreme
Ultra high tensile wires used for alignment in lingual
Orthodontics, to fabricate reciprocal torquing springs,mini
springs.
Combination Arch Wires
The wire is combination of two diameters. In the posterior
segment diameter is 0.018” ovoid whereas anterior segment
0.018” x 0.022”. In Begg’s technique it can be used in St. III,
which fills the bracket slot and avoids torque loss in anterior and
lesser friction in posteriors during retraction/anchor loss.
Respond Wires
Respond is a strand, spiral wrap with a central core wire
(coaxial) (Figure 2). Respond can deliver light, initial forces
while filling the archwire slot for greater control.
Figure 2: Respond (Co-Axial).
D-rect (Braided Preformed and straight)
D-Rect is an 8-stranded, inter-woven rectangular wire
(Figure 3). Its high flexibility, together with 3-dimensional
control and slot filling capabilities, make it ideally suited for
multiple applications:
1. Initial torque control.
2. Picking up second molars later in treatment.
IJO  VOL. 25  NO. 3  FALL 2014
3. A finishing arch wire, where torque control is desired
yet resilient to permit inter-arch occlusal “settling”
4. Torque control with vertical and / or anterior box
elastics.
Force-9 Braided Preformed
Force -9 (Figure 4) is a 9-strand, Inter-woven rectangular
wire. Its high flexibility, together with 3 -dimensional control
and slot filling capabilities make it ideally suited for multiple
applications as D-Rect wires.Force-9 delivers about 50% more
force than 8-stranded D-Rect.Its selection is based on similar
applications where slightly more forces seems to be indicated.
Figure 3: D-Rect (Braided
Rectangular Stainless
Steel).
Figure 4: Force -9
(Braided Rectangular
Stainless Steel).
Figure 5: Turbo Wire
(Braided Rectangular
Niti).
HT/Gold Heat Treated Stainless Steel
Is a high temper stainless steel wire which provides
higher force levels and greater spring back (working range)
than traditional stainless steel wire. It should be considered in
applications where resistance to deformation is a primary factor.
The higher force levels and rigid nature of this wire make it an
excellent choice for transverse arch form control.
Menzanium (Non-nikel containing alloys)
Is fabricated in a patented high pressure melting process
where Manganese and Nitrogen replace allergic components of
Ni.
1. Ideal for Ni sensitive patient.
2. Corrosion resistant and durable.
Cobalt Chromium Alloys (Elgiloys) 1, 3, 12, 13
Developed by Elgin National Watch Company in the mid
century. Main advantage of this wire over stainless steel is, it
is easier to bend in its “as received state.” So it is preferred in
techniques in which loops in arch wires are used. It can be heat
41
 treated after manipulation to achieve hardness approximately
equal to that of Stainless Steel where formability is modified by
heat treatment. It can be supplied in a softer and more formable
state and then can be hardened by heat treatment after being
shaped.
Once the appliance is fabricated no formability is
required. In order resilience is desired to capitalize on the
inherent elasticity of the material, which could be achieved
by heat-treating the alloy at 482°C for 7 to 12 minutes. This
precipitation hardening heat treatment increases the ultimate
strength and resilience of these arch wires without changing
the stiffness. So after heat treatment the softest Elgiloy becomes
equivalent to regular stainless steel, while harder initial grades
are equivalent to the super grade. Along with stainless steel it is
considered the most ideal and economic finishing wire.
Cobalt chromium alloys (Co-Cr) are available commercially
as Nu-Edge, Elite-Opti-MIM, Elgiloy, Azura and Multiphase.
Manufactured in four tempers in increasing order of resilience.
Wires of different tempers are color coded.
Soft : Blue
Ductile : Yellow
Semi resilient : Green
Resilient : Red
Substituted Titanium Alloys:
Nickel Titanium Alloys1, 2,3,14,15,16,17,18,19,20
Titanium has been used as a structural metal ever since
1952 and its possible use in orthodontics has been suggested
periodically. Arch wire materials with component of titanium
became available to orthodontics in the 1970’s.
The first of these, a nickel titanium alloy marketed as
Nitinol in 197I, was developed for space programme but has
proved to be very useful in clinical orthodontics. The alloy was
developed by William F. Buehler a research metallurgist in the
year 1960 at the Naval ordinance Laboratory, now called the
Naval surface weapons Centre in Silver Springs, Maryland. The
name Nitinol is an acronym derived from the elements which
comprises the alloy (Ni- Nickel, Ti- Titanium, “nol” -Naval
ordinance laboratory). Nitinol has excellent springback property
but it does not possess shape memory or super elasticity as it was
manufactured by a work hardening process.. It is available as
NiTi; Nitinol, Orthonol, Sentinol and Titanol.
Nitinol is obtained in two types
1. Thermal Nitinol
2. Elastic Nitinol
Thermal Nitinol18
The original composition comprised of atomic ratio of
Nickel and Titanium. Nickel 55%, Titanium 45%. However,
in order to bring the transition temperature range down to
37°C, the amount of cobalt added to the alloy is 1.6%. The
unique feature of this alloy is the memory phenomenon, which
allows the wire to be plastically deformed or stretched/formed
at a temperature below its transition temperature range and to
maintain form until it is heated through the TTR at which time
the wire will deform to its original pre stretched form. The alloy
has a martensitic grain structure. The transition brings about a
42
change in the grain structure from martensite to austenite. The
alloy has shape memory in the martensite form and this property
is exploited. The arch wire is formed to the desired shape in the
martensite form and it goes through the TTR to the austenite
grain structure. In the austenite grain structure it is deformed
to conform to the irregularities in the arch form; taking the
wire through TTR again will result in its original shape in the
martensitic form.
Elastic Nitinol22
This alloy of Nickel and Titanium without the use of cobalt
has proved to be of practical orthodontic use. The advantage
is its outstanding characteristic elasticity and flexibility which
result in lighter; continuous forces.
Nickel-Titanium Wires
Most advantageous properties are good spring back and
flexibility, which allow for large elastic deflections. High spring
back is useful in circumstances that require large deflections but
low forces. It has a large recoverable energy than Stainless Steel
or Titanium Molubdinum Alloys which results in increased
clinical efficiency. For a given amount of activation they produce
more constant forces on teeth than SS.
Rectangular wire of this inserted early in treatment
accomplishes simultaneous levelling, torquing and correction
of rotations. Heat treatment of Nitinol results in substantial
alterations in mechanical properties of the alloy. Changes
in crystallographic arrangement caused by heating produce
the memory affect in this alloy. Shape memory is the
phenomenon whereby the alloy is soft and readily formable
at a low temperature, but can easily be returned to its original
configuration when heated to a suitable transition temperature.
This change from distorted to original form involves a
transformation of nitinol from the martensitic to the austenitic
phase. Bracket/wire frictional forces with nitinol wires are higher
than those with stainless steel and lower than those with beta-
titanium wires.
Advantages
• Fewer arch wire changes.
• Less chair side time.
• Reduction in time required to accomplish rotation and
levelling.
• Less patient discomfort.
Limitations
• Poor formability of the wires implies that they are best
suited for pre adjusted systems.
• Any first, second and third order bends have to be over
prescribed to obtain the desired permanent bend.
• Fractures readily when bent over a sharp edge. This
bending adversely affects the springback property of
this wire. The bending of loops and stops in nitinol is
therefore not recommended.
• Crimpable hooks and stops are recommended for use.
• Cinch-backs distal to molar buccal tubes can be
obtained by resistance or Flame-annealing the end of
the wire.
IJO  VOL. 25  NO. 3  FALL 2014
 • Dark blue color indicates the desired annealing
temperature.
• Findings on resistance to corrosion of Nitinol wires
have been inconsistent. Various authors have found
Nitinol to be more susceptible to corrosion than
Stainless Steel wires.
Nitinol does not have shape memory or super elasticity
because a work hardening process manufactures it. Super
elasticity is the property demonstrated when the stress value
remains fairly constant up to a certain point of wire deformation
and stays constant as the wire rebounds. Because of such unique
properties it has been widely used in the industrial, medical and
other scientific fields23 24
Chinese And Japanese NiTi
Miura has shown that the super elasticity of Japanese NiTi
(marketed as sentalloy) allows it to deliver a relatively constant
force for a long period. Such force application is considered
physiologically desirable for tooth movement and for patient
comfort. Another super elastic wire Chinese NiTi, can be
deflected 1.6 times as far as Nitinol while producing only 36%
of the force as demonstrated by Burstone et al.24
The new super elastic NiTi wires (A-NiTi) are significantly
different from earlier work-hardened NiTi (M-NiTi) wires
and from Stainless Steel. Their super elasticity assures light,
constant force at mouth temperature regardless of the amount
of activation. Shape memory allows easy arch wire placement
at lower temperatures, while the wires are in their martensitic
phase.
The combination of super elasticity and shape memory
makes these wires quite comfortable for patients, even as
rectangular initial arch wires. Non-linear unloading shows a
rapid initial drop in the force applied to the teeth, implying that
less force is delivered with a greater activation. Since stiffness
increases and the wire become more efficient toward the end of
movement, the clinician should not change the wire too often. A
two-month appointment interval is usually sufficient, although
treatment can be expedited if necessary by simply untying and
retying the arch wires at monthly intervals, which will return
them to their initial activation level.
To take advantage of the temperature sensitivity of A-NiTI
wires, orthodontists may want to advise their patients to
alternate a cold drink with a hot meal once a day. Theoretically,
the cold drink will cause the wires to enter their plastic,
martensitic phase and to momentarily self-adjust in the bracket
slots as the teeth move between appointments.
Chinese and Japanese NiTi has unique characteristics
and offers significant potential in the design of orthodontic
appliances. These possess excellent spring back, shape memory
and super elasticity.23,24
In the mid-eighties, super elastic nickel titanium
was introduced for use by the orthodontist. This alloy
distinguished itself from other materials by demonstrating
thermo-elastic martensitic transformation ‘behavior, a
reversible crystallographically driven structural change. This
phenomenon provides the basis for the large recovery strains
(6%) demonstrated by this material. The most important
IJO  VOL. 25  NO. 3  FALL 2014
characteristic of super elastic nickel titanium behavior to the
clinician was the generation of more constant forces for large
deflections.
Now, “variable transformation temperature
orthodontics” represents another major advance from “variable
modulus mechanics”. Two distinguishing improvements are:
1. Changing the transformation temperature precisely
changes the magnitude of the load.
2. Unloading (tooth moving) forces are constant.
Types
• Thermo dynamic NiTi
• Graded thermo dynamic NiTi
• Copper NiTi
Thermodynamic NiTi
This is a feature where identical dimension arch wires
are produced in heavy, medium, and light forms depending
on percentage of austenite present at mouth temperature.
The arch wire force/deflection characteristics vary at different
temperatures leading to unwanted changes in loading and un-
loading forces for a given wire.
Graded Thermo dynamic NiTi
The area of periodontium and variable transformation
temperature was taken into consideration and graded force
delivery with in the same aligning arch wire,providing light
forces for anteriors,medium forces for premolars, and heavy
forces for molars.
Copper NiTi
Copper NiTi is a new quaternary (nickel, titanium, copper
and chromium) generates a more constant force over long
activation span than other nickel titanium alloys and does so,
on a consistent basis, from arch wire. These show a thermally
induced super elastic effect.25
Copper Ni-Ti wire consists of nickel, titanium, copper and
chromium. The addition of copper to nickel titanium enhances
the thermal-reactive properties of the wire, thereby enabling
the clinician to provide optimal forces for consistent tooth
movement.
Differences between copper Ni-Ti and traditional Ni-Ti
alloys
Copper Ni-Ti is more resistant to permanent deformation
and exhibits better spring back.
Copper Ni-Ti demonstrates a smaller loading force for
the same degree of deformation, making it possible to engage
severely mal posed teeth with less patient discomfort and
potential for root resorption. The decreased hysteresis and flatter
unloading curve result in more consistent forces that are active
longer within the optimal range for tooth movement.
Copper Ni-Ti exhibits a more constant force/deformation
relationship, providing superior consistency from arch wire to
arch wire.
As Copper is an efficient conductor of heat, Copper Ni-Ti
demonstrates consistent transformation temperatures that ensure
43
 consistency. This equates to consistent effectiveness in moving
teeth.
Copper Ni-Ti arch wires comes with precise and consistent
transformation temperatures.
270 C Super elastic Copper Ni-Ti
350 C Super elastic Copper Ni-Ti
400 C Super elastic Copper Ni-Ti
270 C SUPER ELASTIC COPPER Ni-Ti (Round and
Rectangular)
This Ni-Ti wire generates forces in the high range of
physiological force limits and produces constant unloading
forces that can result in rapid tooth movement. Engagement
force is lower than with other super elastic wires because of the
lower loading forces built into copper alloy; at the same time,
unloading force levels are comparable to traditional super elastic
nickel titanium wires.
350 C Thermo-Active Copper Ni-Ti (Round, Rectangular
and Square)
350 C Copper Ni-Ti generates mid-range constant force
levels when the wire reaches mouth temperature. Early ligation
is easier with full-size arch wires due to the lower loading forces.
Unloading are forces are higher and more sustained than other
shape memory wires when the wire reaches body temperature are
desired,350C Copper Ni-Ti is the ideal wire.
400 C Thermo-Active Copper Ni-Ti (Rectangular)
400 C Copper Ni-Ti provides intermittent forces that
are activated when the mouth temperature exceeds 400 C. It
is useful as an initial wire and can be used to engage severely
malaligned teeth (such as high cuspids) without creating
damaging or painful levels of force or unwanted side effects. It is
also the wire of choice for patients scheduled for long intervals
between visits when control of tooth movement is a concern.
Variants of NiTi Wires
Super cable wires:
These comprise of seven individual strands that are woven
together in a long, gentle spiral to maximize flexibility and
minimize force delivery.
Turbo wire (Braided preformed nickel titanium)1
Turbo wire (Figure 5) combines the advantages of highly
resilient NiTi with rectangular braided wire. The braiding
process actually increases the super elastic properties of
NiTi. This combination yields an efficient means to achieve
torque control, with an initial wire, in even the most severe
malocclusion. The wire is recommended as an initial wire to
unravel and level while controlling torque and engaging brackets
fully. It is also effective as a finishing wire, retaining torque but
allowing vertical elastic use.
Uses of NiTi
• NiTi is the ideal arch wire for initial levelling and aligning.
• NiTi is used for tooth separation.
• In transverse expansion of maxilla, NiTi is used as palatal
expander.
44
• Titanal-XR is a NiTi which can be bent or contoured and
which will not creep back.
• In BMA or “Bendable Marsel Alloy “cinched ends do
not straighten out and accepts elastic hooks,tear drops,
bayonets, and stops thus eliminating needs for auxiliaries.
• Turbo is the first braided NiTi wire is the choice when
immediate torque control is essential during initial stages of
levelling and aligning.
ALPHA TITANIUM
Consists of Titanium, Aluminium, and Vanadium. Because
of its hexagonal lattice, it possesses fewer slip planes making it
less ductile than Beta-Titanium. Alpha –Titanium gets hardened
by absorbing intra oral free hydrogen ions which turn it into
Titanium hydride, at oral temperature of 370C and 100%
humidity. The wire becomes rather brittle to bend after a period
of 6 weeks in the mouth. This phenomenon is due to Vanadium
content.
The wire is available as a combination, the anterior section
is 0.018x0.025”rectangular for torque control and braking while
the posterior section which is oval, tapering from 0.018” to
0.017”.Hence it can be used as a Closing wire.
BETA TITANIUM WIRES (TMA) 26
Beta titanium wire was developed by Dr. Burstone CJ
in 1980. It is commercially available as TMA (Titanium-
molybdenum alloy). Beta titanium has a modulus of elasticity
that is less than that of stainless steel and about twice that of
Nitinol. This makes its use ideal in situations in which force
less than those of stainless steel are necessary and in instances in
which a lower modulus material such as Nitinol is inadequate
to produce the desired force magnitudes. Furthermore, the
relatively lower forces generated by beta-titanium wire imply
that the counterproductive force vectors generated by beta.
Titanium wires can be counteracted by smaller forces than those
required for comparable stainless steel wires. Extaoral anchorage
demands with best titanium wires will therefore be less than
those for stainless steel wires.
With half the force but twice the working range of stainless
steel, TMA has indications for all stages of treatment. Because
of its intermediate stiffness between stainless steel and Ni-Ti
memory alloys, it is especially beneficial as a main working arch
wire.TMA has good flexibility and spring back characteristics
along with predictable forces for consistent control.
In the initial stages, TMA is recommended for tooth
alignment, space closure and curve of spee.
In the intermediate stages, TMA is recommended for
early torque control with moderate forces.TMA also provides
complete modification of the wire for dimensional control.
Indications include use as an ideal retraction arch while exerting
more constant moderate forces over a longer period of time.
In the final stage of the treatment, TMA is used as a detailing
wire with moderate force.
The springback for beta titanium is superior to that of stainless
steel. A beta- titanium wire can therefore be deflected almost
twice as much as stainless steel wire without permanent
deformation. This makes it an excellent choice for auxiliary
springs and for intermediate and finishing archwires, especially
IJO  VOL. 25  NO. 3  FALL 2014
rectangular wires for the late stages of edgewise treatment. Its
properties are intermediate between SS and” M-NiTi. When
compared with Nitinol, TMA was inherently smoother, could
be welded and had good formability. When compared with SS,
TMA produced greater linear forces per unit of deactivation and
had more range and springback. Beta titanium wires also deliver
about half the amount of force as do comparable stainless steel
wires for example, and 0.018” x 0.025” inch beta -titanium wire
delivers approximately the same force as a .014” x .020” SS in a
second-order activation. The former configuration has the added
advantage of full bracket engagement and a resultant greater
torque control than the smaller stainless steel wire.27
The good formability of beta-titanium wire allows stops
and loops to be bent into the wire. However, Burstone and
Goldberg recommend that these wires should not be bent over
a sharp radius. Helices that are commonly used with stainless
steel to lower that load deflection rate of the appliance may
not be necessary with beta-titanium wires because of their low
modulus of elasticity and high springback. This helps to simplify
appliance design by eliminating the need to place loops and
helices in the wire.28
It is possible to attach stops, hooks, and active auxiliaries by
welding to beta- titanium wires, thereby increasing the versatility
of the wire. However, adequate strength of the weld without
loss in wire properties is achieved within a narrow optimal
voltage setting on a resistance spot welder. Nelson, Burstone,
and Golberg have provided values for these optimal voltage
settings. A flat-to-flat electrode configuration is recommended
for welding because it produces a strong joint with low levels
of distortion. Overheating of the wire causes it to become
brittle.28,29
Beta-titanium has a corrosion resistance comparable to
stainless steel and cobalt -chromium alloys. Beta-titanium
wires demonstrate higher levels of bracket / wire friction than
either Stainless Steel or Co-Cr wires. This may imply slower
rates of tooth movement during canine retraction and space
consolidation with beta- titanium wire than, with stainless steel
or co-cr wires. Absence of nickel makes it useful in patients
allergic to nickel.30
The composition of TMA is:
Titanium 79%
Molybdenum 11 % ‘I
Zirconium 6%
Tin 4%
The metastable BCC structure of Titanium can be retained
at room temperatures by using a variety of allowing additives
such as Molybdenum, Vanadium or Chromium and the final
properties can be significantly altered by the thermal and
mechanical processing used to produce the small diameter wire.
In TMA, the friction is probably due to its relative softness, and
surface treatment by Ion can increase the hardness and reduce
the coefficient of friction of TMA wire while maintaining its
desirable mechanical properties, Ion implantation is a process
by which various elements or compounds are joined arid then
accelerated toward target -in this case, the orthodontic archwire.
Ion implantation takes place in a vacuum chamber, in which a
Vapor flux of Ions is generated with an electron beam evaporator
and deposited on the substrate. Gas ions nitrogen and oxygen
IJO  VOL. 25  NO. 3  FALL 2014
are simultaneously extracted from plasma and accelerated in
the growing physical vapor deposition film at energies of several
hundred to several thousand electron volts. Various colored
TMAS (purple, Violet, aqua honey dew) are produced by
Ion implantation. They have the same coefficient of friction
as stainless steel and in some cases (purple, honeydrew) even
lower.30
The Ions penetrate the surface of the wire on impact,
building up a structure that consists of both the original wire
and a layer of tin compounds (TIN and TIO) on the surface and
immediate subsurface. This layer is extremely hard and creates a
considerable amount of compressive forces in the material at the
atomic level. The compressive forces and the increased surface
hardness improve the fatigue resistance and ductility and reduce
the coefficient of friction of the wire. The superficial compressive
forces also minimize any detrimental effects of surface flaws.30
Unlike conventional coating process, ion implantation
produces no sharp interface between coating and wire, which
can lead to bond failure or delamination. Also unlike coating
ion implantations does not alter wire dimensions; thus it allows
the production of high quality wires with close dimensional
tolerances. The depth, distribution and concentration profile
can be controlled by varying the ion dosage and energy. Ion
implantation can take place at relatively low temperatures -from
subzero to 700°C. The thickness of the implanted surface layer
can be precisely controlled and its properties engineered to
affect characteristics such as hardness, friction, wear resistance,
ductility and fatigue resistance.30
Reverse curve TMA
TMA with reverse curve of spee is ideal for bite opening,
arch leveling, space closure and early three-dimensional
manipulation and torque control. In addition ,this arch wire
provides the mechanics necessary for leveling deep bites and
countering undesirable tipping tendencies during space closure.
With twice the resiliency of stainless steel, TMA delivers
continuous, uniform forces for rapid,efficient tooth movement.
Reverse curve TMA with “T”Loops
Reverse Curve TMA with “T” loops offers a superior
titanium alloy with proven treatment mechanics. The “T”
loop design allows for effective anterior retraction, intrusion of
anterior segment and torquing.
Low friction and colored TMA
If sliding mechanics and minimum friction are your
goals, then colored low friction TMA is the choice of wire. Ion
beam implantation procedure provides wire that has the same
coefficient of friction as stainless steel and in some cases even
lower.
TIMOLIUM ARCHWIRE
These are intermediary in properties between TMA and
Stainless steel wires. It is an excellent addition in clinician’s
armamentarium.
TITANIUM NIOBIUM -FA (FINISHING ARCHWIRE)
Designed for precision tooth to tooth finishing. Its unique
45
 metallurgical properties allow most precise intra oral detailing
option available today. At 80% of the stiffness of TMA, it is
perfect for holding bends yet light enough not to override the
arch to arch relationship which is very hard to achieve.
Titanium Niobium FA is an innovative new arch wire
designed for precision, tooth-to-tooth finishing. The unique
metallurgical properties of Titanium Niobium FA make it the
most precise intra oral detailing option available today. At 80%
of the stiffness of TMA, it is perfect for holding bends, yet
light enough not to over ride the arch-to-arch relationship that
you work so hard to achieve. It is recommended for use with
finishing elastics and even though it feels soft and pliable, it
possesses a resiliency after bending that is equal to stainless steel.
ESTHETIC ARCH WIRES
There are two types of Esthetic Arch Wires: Coated and
Composite.
Coated Archwires(fig. 6a and 6b)
These are stainless steel/NiTi Wires coated with
Teflon/4META/Tooth colored epoxy resins. (Figure 6a and 6b)
Figure 6A: Tooth Color Coated Archwire.
Figure 6B: Gold Coated Archwires.
Figure 7: Azuralloy.
46
Composite Archwires
Optiflex:31
A composite structure formed by top -coating optical glass
fibers which are pure silicon dioxide with a hot melt adhesive
and a nylon skin. The result is a 17 mil wire with an 8 mil glass
core. Optiflex is a new orthodontic archwire that is:
1. Made of clear optical fiber, it comprises three layers.
2. A silicon dioxide core that provides the force for
moving teeth.
3. A silicon resin middle layer that protects the core from
moisture and adds strength.
4. A strain-resistant nylon outer layer that prevents
damage to the wire and further increases its strength.
The wire can be either round or rectangular and is
manufactured in various sizes. Its mechanical properties include
a wide range of action and the ability to apply light, continuous
force. Sharp bends must be avoided, since they could fracture
the core. Otherwise, optiflex has practically no deformation. It
is a highly resilient arch wire that is especially effective in the
alignment of crowded teeth and has excellent esthetics.
Marsenol:
Tooth colored nickel titanium wire manufactured by
glenroe technologies.It is E.T.E. coated nickel titanium.
(Elastomeric poly tetra flor ethylene emulsion). Marsenol
exhibits all same working characteristics of an uncoated super
elastic nickel titanium wire.
Lee white wire:
These are Stainless steel or nickel titanium archwire bonded
to tooth colored epoxy coating.
Organic polymer retainer wire
It is made from 1.6mm diameter round polytheline
terephthalate. This material can be bent with a plier, but will
return to its original shape if it is not heat–treated for a few
seconds at temperature less than 230°C (melting point).
OTHER NEWER ARCHWIRES
Azurloy (preformed and straight)
Azurloy (Figure 7) is a heat-treatable alloy with excellent
formability in its non-treated form. Applications that take
advantage of this formability, followed by heat-treating to
increase the spring rate, might include:
• Multiple-loop systems
• Utility arches
• Overlay intrusion or Base Arches
Dual Flex Arch Wires
Dual flex arch has its anterior segment made up of 0.016”
or .0016” x 0.022” titanol. It is a Nickel Titanium alloy
manufactured by Lancer pacific, the posterior segment is made
up of 0.016” or 0.018” Stainless Steel thus combining anterior
and posterior segments of different stiffness
Graded Thermodynamic/Tri Force Arch Wire
It has been pre programmed to deliver the right amount of
force for each area of the mouth (Figure 8). Strongest to more
IJO  VOL. 25  NO. 3  FALL 2014
Figure 8: Graded Thermodynamic Archwire.
deeply rooted molars, medium at the bicuspids and gentle at the
anteriors. It is an Austenitic wire delivering force constantly. It
prevents dumping of molars and unwanted rotation of premolar
and gentle force to anterior teeth causing no discomfort. It gives
three dimensional control early in the treatment.
Wallaby (High temper continuous roll):
For use with light wire or edgewise appliances, wallaby is a
higher temper than standard chrome alloy wire. Its higher yield
strength over equivalent diameter stainless steel provides higher
force for a given deflection.
Drift free archwires:
A built in 1 mm midline stop prevents lateral arch wire
shift. The shifting of arch wire might injure the buccal mucosa
on one side and the wire is out of the buccal tube on the other
side. The permanent midline stop also acts as a reference point
where measurements can be taken easily. Many times the mark
or the spot to demarcate the midline wears off
Conclusion
Recent advances in orthodontic wire alloy have resulted in
varied array of wire that exhibit a wide spectrum of properties.
Presently the orthodontist may select, from all the available wire
types, one that best meets the demands of a particular clinical
situation.The selection of an appropriate wire size and alloy type
in turn would provide the benefit of optimum and predictable
treatment results. The clinician must therefore be conversant
with the mechanical properties and the clinical application of
these wires.
References
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Technique 4th Edition.
3. William A. Brantley, Theodore Elades Orthodontic materials Scientific
and clinical aspects.
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5. R.P. Kusy A review of contemporary archwires Their properties and
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orthodontic archwires. Clini­cal Materials 1988: Vol. 3: 41-59.
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Blue elgiloy. J Clin Orthod 1984 Vol. 28: 432 - 435.
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nitinol wire with a transition range between 310 and 45°C. Am. J. Orthod
1980. Vol. 78: 528 - 537.
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steel under clinical conditions. Angle Orthod. 1981. Vol. 57: 319 - 324.
20. Drake S.R. Wayne D.M. et al. Mechanical properties of orthodontic wires
in tension, bending and torsion. Am. J. Orthod. 1982. Vol. 82:45-49
21. Schwannger B. et al. Effect of Long term immersion corrosion on flexural
properties of nitinol. Am. J. Orthod. 1982. Vol. 82: 45 - 49.
22. Fujio Miura et al. The super elastic property of nickel – titanium wire for
use in orthodontics. Am. J. Orthod. 1986. Vol. 90: 01 - 10.
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24. Fujio Miura et al. Japanese Niti - alloy wire, use of direct electric resistance
heat treatment. Eur J Orthod 1988 Vol. 10:187 - 191.
47
 25. Fuijo Miura et al. New application of super - elastic Niti rectangular wires.
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Dr. Pradeep Subbiah is a Lecturer in the
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Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial
Orthod. 1980. Vol. 77: 121 - 132.
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orthodontic arch wire material. Am. J. Orthod. 1981. Vol. 79: 625 - 629. Mysore, Karnataka, India.
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archwires Am. J. Orthod 1987. Vol. 92: 213 - 219.
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TMA by ion implantation. J. Clin. Orthod. 1995. Vol. 29: 453 - 461. Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial
31. Talass M.F. Optiflex archwire treatment of a skeletal class Ill open bite. J. Orthopaedics at JSS Dental College and Hospital in
Clin. Ortho. 1992. Vol. 26: 245 – 252. Mysore, Karnataka, India.

Dr. Jyothikiran is working as Associate Professor

at J.S.S. Dental College and Hospital in Mysore,
Karnataka, India. He has a special interest in
orthognathic surgical areas. And, has many
publications to His credit in National and indexed Dr. Vishal Kudagia is a Lecturer in the
International Journals. He has chaired scientific Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial
sessions at Orthodontic conferences. Orthopaedics at JSS Dental College and Hospital in
Mysore, Karnataka, India.

Dr. Ravi Shantharaj is an Associate Professor in the

Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial
Orthopaedics at JSS Dental College and Hospital in
Mysore, Karnataka, India.

Dr. Panchali Batra is working as Assistant Professor

in the Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial
Orthopaedics at Jamia Millia Islamia Dental College
and Hospital in New Delhi, India. She has a special
interest in cleft lip and palate areas. She has many
publications in indexed national and international
journals to her credit.

48 IJO  VOL. 25  NO. 3  FALL 2014

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