NiTi archwires are used routinely in orthodontic treatments with brackets. The flexibility and strength of the wires helps to efficiently align and level misaligned teeth. With this starting point, a team of researchers led by Dr Xavier Gil, rector of UIC Barcelona, and also including Dr Andreu Puigdollers, head of the Orthodontics department of the Faculty of Dentistry, conducted the study entitled “
New Bactericide Orthodonthic Archwire: NiTi with Silver Nanoparticles”.
The joint research project conducted by experts in bioengineering, materials and orthodontics has recently been published in the journal Metals, and its aim was the design of a new bactericide orthodontic NiTi arch wire that add anti-caries properties to the benefits of the alloy. Dr Gil explains, “Through the research we have seen how, by means of electrodeposition of silver nanoparticles, these acquire bactericidal properties that can help to control the dental plaque in patients wearing brackets.”
This in vitro research should be replicated by new tests carried out in a clinical setting. The bactericidal effects of this new material represents an advance in orthodontic treatment.
