# Effect of arch wires and brackets in orthodontics for releasing nickel ions

## TL;DR

This study examines how much nickel is released from orthodontic materials, which could affect patients sensitive to nickel.

## Contribution

The study quantifies nickel ion release from various orthodontic wires and brackets over time.

## Key findings

- Nickel ion release peaks on the 7th day and then decreases over time.
- All tested orthodontic materials released nickel ions, posing a risk to nickel-sensitive patients.

## Abstract

The amount of nickel ions released from orthodontic wires and brackets is of interest to dentists. The amount of nickel ions emitted
from a combination of one of the five arch wires (NiTi, SS, Cu NiTi, Co-Cr-Ni alloys and ion implanted NiTi), five orthodontic brackets
and one band was investigated. The wire was 0.016 inches in length. Data shows the release of Ni ion from assembly of orthodontic
archwire, orthodontic brackets and orthodontic band in all categories at all-time checkpoints with maximum increase in release of Ni
from baselines to 7th day. Thereafter, release of Ni decreased as the time duration increased in all categories. Hence, there
is significant release of Ni ion from orthodontic archwire and orthodontic brackets. Thus, orthodontic therapy for patients who are Ni
sensitive may be difficult.