Effect of pH of soft drinks on force decay in orthodontic power chains

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Teh Botol, Buavita, Coca-Cola, and distilled water on force decay in orthodontic power chains. Twenty-eight power chains (Ormo; closed type; transparent) were fixed onto acrylic frameworks (inter-hook distance, 40 mm) and immersed in sweet tea, juice, softdrink, and distilled water. Force decay was measured at 1, 24, 42, 72, 168, and 336 h after immersion using a tension gauge. The force levels were decreased after the immersion of power chains in all four solutions. However, acidity did not significantly influence the force decay of the power chains.