To test the hypothesis that the dimension of the bracket, both in labial and in lingual orthodontics, is a relevant parameter to determine the forces acting on the teeth, and that some wires commonly used in labial orthodontics (0.016”-diameter SS, TMA and Nitinol) are not suitable for the first phase of lingual treatment.

An ideal dental cast was bonded with eight different brackets (Damon 3MX, Ovation, Time 2, Innovation and Smart Clip Clarity on the vestibular face; STB, Adenta Time and Innovation-L on the lingual). After photographic documentation, the interbracket distance was calculated for each type of bracket, using ImageJ software. The mean elasticity modulus of the tested wires was obtained from the review of the available literature. The theoretical wire load on every tooth was calculated mathematically at three different levels of deflection (0.5mm; 1.0mm and 1.5mm), on both the labial and lingual sides, for all types of bracket.

The lingual arch in the anterior segment is always shorter than the vestibular arch. The different brackets, having different dimensions, have an influence on the interbracket distance, and, consequently, on the wire load. At large deflections, superelastic NiTi expresses light and continuous forces, which are significantly lower than the other examined alloys.

The initial hypothesis was supported. Because of the reduced interbracket distance, the adoption of superelastic wires is required in lingual mechanics and with smaller diameter compared to labial mechanotherapy, in particular during the first phases of treatment. The use of a bracket with reduced mesiodistal dimensions can contribute to reduce the load on the teeth.