A Comparison of the Force-Moment Systems Generated by Orthodontic Stainless Steel T-loop and Triangular Springs

Abstract

The force-moment systems of orthodontic T-loops have been widely described and investigated. A simpler triangular loop spring design has been employed in the graduate orthodontic clinic at Indiana University School of Dentistry. To date, no investigators have specifically examined and compared the force systems generated by these two loop configurations. The objective of this study was to compare the force systems generated by a T-loop and two different geometric shapes of triangular loops. A sample of 20 T-loops and 40 triangular loop springs were studied. The triangular loops were constructed in two different geometric configurations (n = 20 in each group) utilizing the same linear amount of wire as used in the T-loop fabrication. One set of triangular loops was the same height as the T-loop (isosceles shape); the other set was the same width as the T-loop (equilateral shape). Force and moment components along three mutually perpendicular axes (x, y, and z) were analyzed, with particular emphasis on the force system generated in the sagittal plane. The force-moment systems generated upon mesio-distal (x axis) activation were measured by a transducer connected to a computer for data collection and analysis. Statistical analysis utilized repeated measures of variance models (ANOVA). Multiple comparisons were made using Fisher's Protected Least Significant Differences at a 95-percent overall confidence level. On initial ligation, there were no significant differences between the loops in the M/F ratios in the sagittal plane (p = 0.75). For all other activation distances, the equilateral triangular loops produced greater M/F ratios than both the isosceles and T-loops (p = 0.0001), and the isosceles triangular loops generated greater M/F ratios than the T-loops (p < 0.0035).