Intra-Comparative Evaluation of Alignment Efficiency and Pain Perception after Initial Alignment using Preformed Copper NiTi and Customized Superelastic NiTi Archwires

Aim: In the constantly evolving field of orthodontics, it is necessary to develop cost-effective materials to cater to weaker socioeconomic sections of society. This study used the low-cost superelastic NiTi archwires, which were customized as an alternative to Copper NiTi archwires, and compared them regarding alignment efficiency and pain perception after initial alignment. Methods: Thirty-six patients were randomly assigned to two groups in terms of initial archwires: group 1: 0.014-inch preformed Copper NiTi archwire and group 2: 0.014-inch customized superelastic NiTi archwire. Changes in the alignment of the six anterior teeth were measured for 4 months at T0, T1, T2, T3, and T4 using the modified Little’s irregularity index. Patients were asked to complete the Pain Questionnaire with the VAS scale. Friedman’s test and Wilcoxon’s signed-rank test were used to compare the two groups, and the Mann-Whitney U test was used for intergroup comparison of the modified Little’s irregularity index. P<0.05 was considered as significant. Results: Groups 1 and 2 exhibited no significant differences (P>0.05) when alignment efficiency was compared at different time intervals. Patients reported less pain perception and were more comfortable with customized superelastic NiTi archwires compared to Copper NiTi archwires (P<0.01). Conclusion: Customized superelastic NiTi archwires demonstrated alignment efficiency similar to Copper NiTi archwires but significantly reduced pain perception. Therefore, they could be a viable alternative for minimizing pain in the initial alignment phase of fixed orthodontic treatment.