A Comparison of the slot dimensions, in-built tip and torque of MBT prescription bracket systems of 5 commercially available orthodontic metal brackets manufactured by Indian companies: A stereo-microscopic study

• Author Details:   
• Sameer Pralhad Narkhede
• Vighanesh Vijay Kadam
• Manali Harishchandra Patil ^*
• Veera Sawant
• Keval Kamlesh Shroff
• Nitin Dinesh Gadhiya

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Background: Complete expression of the In-built tip and torque is important to achieve the desired final positioning of teeth and a stable and aesthetic result. For this, slot height, torque and tip incorporation within the bracket must be accurate. Although bracket prescriptions are expected to be precise, several studies have indicated differences between the given and true prescriptions of orthodontic brackets. Discrepancy in the mentioned and true values may result in losing control over biomechanics, leading to inadequate treatment finishing and compromised results. The study aims to examine the accuracy provided in orthodontic bracket specifications, especially slot dimensions, tip and torque values of five commercially available Indian orthodontic bracket systems using a stereomicroscope.

Materials and Methods: 10 upper central incisor brackets of MBT prescription (0.022-inch slot) were selected from 5 different bracket series manufactured by Indian companies. Each bracket was mounted on an acrylic block made of cold-cure acrylic resin. It was viewed under a Stereomicroscope to assess the accuracy of the mentioned slot height, in-built tip and the torque of the bracket. Images obtained were digitally measured and values were obtained.

Results: The study identified areas for enhancement in tip, torque, and slot height measurements across the bracket series evaluated, with the Sapphire brackets notably accurate in size. Mean tip values increased overall, though not significantly. Most series showed reduced mean torque values, except the Micro LP Brackets, which saw an increase. These findings suggest opportunities for refining bracket design and manufacturing to improve precision and performance.

Conclusion: The above study makes it important for orthodontists to be careful when choosing brackets for fixed appliance therapy in clinical practice, to achieve ideal results and avoid the need for additional wire bending. Clinicians must acknowledge the imperfections in the manufactured brackets and take proactive control over the appliance and dictate the outcome

Keywords: MBT, Slot dimensions, Torque, Tip, Stereomicroscope, Indian companies