Influence of the Autoclaving Processes on the Most Commonly Used Orthodontic Archwires

The orthodontic archwires are an integral part of the fixed appliance used for treatment of orthodontic malocclusions. The specific requirements for the prevention and control of care associated infections necessitates that every orthodontist should prevent contaminated orthodontic archwires being placed in the patient's mouth. Most leading companies offer their products in individual sealed packages suitable for autoclaving. The aim of this study is to determine the changes occurring in the chemical composition and the surface of four of the wires most widely used in the orthodontic practice. For comparison, the wires are divided into two groups a control group and a group of wires sterilized in a type B autoclave at 121 oC for 21 min.