ABSTRACT:
Aim : This article reviews the beta titanium, a new material for orthodontics. Objective:. A beta titanium alloy was evaluated for use in orthodontic appliances. Background : Orthodontic wires made from different alloys now offer alternative sequences of wire usage during all phases of orthodontic treatment. It is now possible to match phases of treatment with orthodontic wires according to the mechanical properties of the wire. On this basis, the selection of orthodontic wire should be based not only on the transverse section of the wire, but also on an understanding of the deactivation characteristics of the wire required for different phases of orthodontic treatment. The beta-titanium (ß-Ti) wires are titanium molybdenum alloys, introduced for orthodontic use in 1979 by Goldberg and Burstone. The beta titanium wire has a unique balance of low stiffness, high spring back, formability, and weldability which indicates its use in a wide range of clinical applications. A number of such applications are described. Beta-titanium wires have been utilised in orthodontics because of their favourable characteristics such as low stiffness, excellent formability, and efficient working range for tooth movement. In fact, the only major disadvantage of this wire seems to be its cost. Initially used for springs and loops with segmented arches, ß-Ti wires have become popular in all areas of orthodontic treatment. Reason : Mechanical properties and manipulative characteristics are summarised to develop a basis for the selection of the proper alloy for a given clinical situation.