Abstract
BACKGROUND: Despite the large variety of retainer wires available, no studies could be found comparing the micromechanical properties and surface roughness of different retainer wires. Such characteristics affect the survival of the fixed retainer in terms of both fracture resistance and resistance to debonding from the tooth. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine and compare those characteristics in popular retainer wires. METHODS: six different popular orthodontic retainer wires were subjected to instrumental indentation based on the Oliver and Pharr method. The geometric surface structure was analysed using a non-contact profilometer. RESULTS: stainless steel wires had a higher hardness and a higher elastic modulus compared to titanium wires and white gold chain. The titanium wire and the white gold chain showed much more roughness than other wires. CONCLUSIONS: stainless steel wires are the most resistant, considering both the shape retention capacity and the ability to resist abrasive wear. The titanium wire showed the lowest hardness and, thus, the highest susceptibility to deformation. Bond-a-braid, Retainium and Orthoflex white gold are more resistant to fracture than other steel wires. Titanium wire and chain retainer wires have more roughness, which is a great advantage in terms of mechanical adhesion to composite materials.