Development and Evaluation of a New Orthodontic Ligature: Frictional Force Analysis

Abstract Objective To evaluate and compare the friction of different ligature modes used in orthodontics, and to propose a new ligature model for conventional brackets (“H low-friction orthodontic ligature). Materials and Methods Samples were randomly divided into seven experimental groups: (1) resin H ligature (H3D), designed by the authors of this study and produced in a 3D printer, with conventional bracket; (2) metal H ligature (HFM), with conventional bracket; (3) passive self-ligating bracket (SLP); (4) “8” low-friction unconventional elastic (LT8), with conventional bracket; (5) loose conventional metal ligature (MLS), with conventional bracket; (6) conventional metal ligature fully tightened (MLT), with conventional bracket; (7) conventional elastic ligature (CEL), with conventional bracket—control. All samples were subjected to mechanical static friction testing using the EMIC DL 2000 universal testing machine. Statistical Analysis To assess the normality requirement, the Shapiro–Wilk test was used, which showed a non-normal distribution for the means of the groups (p < 0.05). Therefore, statistical tests were performed to assess the existence of statistically significant differences between the groups through the Kruskal–Wallis, followed by Dunn's test, pairwise comparison, p < 0.05. Results The results obtained showed lower friction values for HFM (0.002 kgf), SLP (0.003 kgf), and LT8 (0.004 kgf)—these did not differ statistically from each other. These were followed by H3D (0.020 kgf), MLS (0.049 kgf), CEL (0.12 kgf), and, finally, MLT (0.21 kgf). Conclusion The lowest friction value was found for the metal H ligature, similar to the self-ligating bracket and the “8” low-friction unconventional elastic. The resin H ligature presented intermediate friction values and the highest friction force was found for the MLT group.