A comparison between two orthodontic arch wire sequences in terms of speed of alignment and root resorption. A Randomized controlled clinical trial

Objectives: To compare between two archwire (AW) sequences in terms of alignment speed and root resorption (RR). Materials: and Methods: Fifty-four patients (14 males, 40 females) requiring orthodontic treatment were randomly allocated into two groups; in group A treatment started with 0.014 nickel titanium (NiTi) followed by 0.019×0.025NiTi AW while group B the AW sequence was 0.014NiTi, 0.018NiTi, 0.016×0.022“NiTi, 0.019×0.025NiTi. The primary outcome was the alignment speed of crowded upper and lower teeth between two different AW sequences. The secondary outcome was the magnitude of RR of upper and lower incisors which was measured by digital periapical radiographs taken at the start of treatment and at the visit of placement of the working AW. Results: : The 54 patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either groups. Seven patients were excluded and complete data were obtained for 47 patients; 24 and 23 patients in group A and group B, respectively. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the alignment speed in the lower arch ( P >0.05, mean difference=-0.44, 95% CI=-0.9-0.03) and root resorption (P>0.05). Alignment of upper arch was faster in group A ( P < 0.0001, mean difference= - 0.9, 95% CI =-1.4 --0.5). Conclusions: : There is no significant difference between the two groups in the alignment speed in the lower arch and incisors' RR. Upper arch Alignment was faster in group A. Trial Registration: Not registered.