Dental Materials Commons^™

Effect Of Toothbrush Abrasion On Frictional Resistance Of Aesthetic Orthodontic Archwires, Stephen Alexander Yamodis

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Fixed orthodontic appliances (braces) are one of the most widely used appliances to correct malocclusion, however many patients prefer less metal display. To meet this demand more esthetically pleasing brackets and archwires have been developed. These esthetic components are often clear, white or tooth colored. Coatings of various types are commonly used to produce an esthetic archwire. However, these coating materials tend to wear and degrade, which may cause binding and increased resistance to friction, thereby potentially reducing the efficiency of tooth movement. Therefore, in vitro testing of tooth brush abrasion on frictional resistance of various aesthetic archwires was tested. …

Practicing Orthodontists' Use And Perceived Efficacy Of Self-Ligating Brackets, John-David Beuhler

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Introduction.

The purpose of this study was to compare perceptions of efficacy and efficiency of Self-Ligating Brackets vs. conventional brackets between practicing Orthodontists and Orthodontic Residents.

Methods.

Cross-sectional survey research using a three-wave emailing of addresses from the current American Association of Orthodontists directory. The directors of all orthodontic residency programs in the US were asked to also distribute to all residents. The survey included five sections: (1) respondents' experience, (2) factors that influence, (3) positive or negative factors, (4) the perceived efficiency/efficacy, and (5) demographics. A 39% response rate (N=707) was obtained.

Results.

Over half (51.8%) …

Bacterial Adherence Of Streptococcus Mutans And Lactobacillus Acidophilus On Poly-Methyl Methacrylate And Thermoplastic Polypropene Used In Orthodontic Retention, Lindsay Ann Pfepper

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Retention is required in the majority of orthodontic patients throughout the remainder of their life. The two primary removable appliances are known as the traditional Hawley retainer or the vacuum formed retainer. These appliances were developed to maintain the position of the dentition without sacrificing oral health. The orthodontic population is at a higher risk for caries due to plaque accumulation from poor diet, suboptimal oral hygiene and often lack of motivation. These two retainers occupy different niches and are comprised of different materials; therefore the retainers' effect on oral health could be very different. An understanding of which bacteria …