The accuracy of brackets placement in direct bonding technique: a comparison between the pole-like bracket positioning gauge and the star-like bracket positioning gauge

The accuracy of brackets placement is a key factor in successful orthodontic therapy. An in vitro study was conducted in ten models from a natural maxillary teeth model in order to compare the accuracy of brackets placement between two direct bonding instruments: the pole-like Bracket Positioning Gauge and the star-like Bracket Positioning Gauge. Our results have shown that: the star-like Bracket Positioning Gauge is more precise in placing brackets vertically, whereas the pole-like Bracket Positioning Gauge allows a better angulation of the bracket. Considering each tooth separately, there is no statistically significant difference between the two positioning gauges, except that the star-like gauge gives better results in bracket’s height for the second premolar and the canine, whereas the pole-like gauge allows for a better positioning and a better vertical angulation of the brackets for the lateral incisor. No statistically significant difference was found between the two gauges on the mesiodistal position. Overall, the star-like gauge showed a better accuracy in positioning brackets.