Intra-oral Evaluation of Force Decay of Pigmented and Transparent Elastomeric Power Chains:

The study was a split-mouth randomized clinical trial. Four colors (pink, blue, black, and grey) and transparent elastomeric power chains from 3 different companies (American Orthodontic, SIA, and Matt) were evaluated. A total of 96 participants were recruited, and 192 elastomeric power chains were stretched between the canine bracket hook and the molar band hook throughout the study period. The delivered force of elastomeric power chains was assessed and compared among each other using a calibrated Dentarum force gauge over 6-week intervals (baseline, 24 hours, first week, second week, third week, fourth week, fifth week, and sixth week). To further investigate factors influencing force decay (FD), data on tooth movement, mastication side, beverage consumption, brushing frequency, oral hygiene status, and khat chewing were collected using a structured questionnaire to assess their potential impact.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients aged between 12-30 years.
• Patients who are undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.
• Orthodontic patients who underwent bilateral extraction protocol in maxillary arch.
• Patients were in working arch wire 19×25 stainless steel.
• Patients with moderate anchorage to ensure comparable baseline mechanics.

Exclusion criteria

• Patients indicated for orthognathic treatment.
• Patients who reported any systemic diseases.
• Patients with clefts or syndromes.