Study of the adaptability of preformed orthodontic archwires to the average dental arch form of a Moroccan population

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study is to determine which commercially available preformed archwires offer a good fit with the average dental arch form of our sample.

Materials and method: We measured the dental arch parameters of sample 1 comprising 30 dental models and compared them with the dimensions of 25 archwires (sample 2) offered for sale by orthodontic suppliers.

Results and discussion: Of the 25 archwires tested, 10 correspond perfectly to the average dental arch form of our sample at canine and molar level (mean±1SD) and would be suitable for cases where the treatment plan involves no expansion. In addition, 3 archwires have a shape that is slightly wider than the average arch form in the sample and could be used for cases in which the treatment plan includes no extractions but simply a slight expansion.

Keywords: Dental arch forms; Preformed archwires; Stability.