A New Versatile Tool for Accurate Bracket Positioning—An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Aim To evaluate and compare the accuracy of bracket positioning in the incisogingival and mesiodistal aspects with the MBT gauge and new multipurpose bracket positioning tool. Materials and Methods Bracket positioning of maxillary anterior teeth ( n=30) was assessed on the typhodont model. The UNC-15 (University of North Carolina) probe was modified as an MBP tool. Five different malocclusions: (a) Class II Division 1 ( n=6); (b) Class II Division 2 ( n=6); (c) Class I with mesially inclined maxillary anterior teeth ( n=6); (d) Class I with crowding in maxillary anterior teeth-3 mm ( n=6); (e) Class I with different vertical heights of maxillary anterior teeth ( n=6). The measurements of the study were divided into three groups; Group A: Central Incisor, Group B: Lateral Incisor, and Group Canine, based on positioning with MBT Gauge and MBP tool. The measurements on each tooth were recorded using vernier calliper, on the basis of which the discrepancy in vertical and axial bracket positioning was assessed. Results The comparative evaluation of the MBT gauge and MBP Tool showed statistically insignificant differences between all the groups (p>0.05). The mean standard deviation with the MBT gauge was 0.5-0.7 mm, whereas with the MBP tool was only 0.05- 0.3 mm only; suggesting clinical relevance and acuity during bracket positioning. Conclusion The MBP tool is relatively accurate and comparable to the MBT gauge as the horizontal and vertical arm of the MBP tool facilitates proper visualization by coinciding with the long axis of the tooth on the typhodont model leading to augmented precision.