Comparison Of Force Degradation Characteristics Between Latex And Non Latex Elastics At Varying Ph

Elastics in orthodontics have been used effectively both intra-orally and extra-orally. Their use combined with good patient co-operation provides the clinician with the ability to correct both anteroposterior and vertical discrepancies. It’s the intent of the clinician to maintain optimal force values over desired period of time. Force degradation over a period of time is a major problem in the clinical usage of these elastics. Loss of force makes it difficult for the clinician to determine the actual force transmitted to the dentition. Comparative knowledge of this parameter in various latex & non latex elastics could help the clinician in proper selection of elastic for an efficient treatment of the orthodontic discrepancy. This study will be an attempt to compare in vitro performance of the various latex and non-latex elastics by measuring force degradation for the different types of elastics in varying pH.