Effectiveness and Efficiency of a Customized versus Conventional Orthodontic Bracket System

DENNIS J. WEBER II: Effectiveness and Efficiency of a Customized Versus Conventional Orthodontic Bracket System (Under the direction of Dr. Lorne Koroluk) The goal of this investigation was to compare the clinical effectiveness and efficiency of a customized versus a conventional orthodontic bracket system. Pre-treatment and post-treatment diagnostic records of 11 patients treated with conventional brackets and 35 patients treated with Ormco ® 's Insignia TM appliance were analyzed. Initial PAR and age at start of treatment were used to ensure comparable groups. Data regarding total treatment time, number of scheduled appointments, emergency appointments, de-bonded brackets, repositioned brackets and/or detailing bends, final PAR, and ABO score was collected and compared. Insignia TM proved to be an effective tooth-moving appliance based on final PAR score. Further, cases treated with Insignia TM had superior ABO scores compared to the similarly treated cases with conventional brackets. Insignia TM was also more efficient in regards to total treatment time and number of scheduled appointments. Dr. Phillips for her insight and advice as well as her expertise regarding statistical analysis for this project. Dr. Tung Nguyen for his input and counsel as well as the inspiration for this project. Debbie Price for all her assistance with data input. Drs. Sarver and Kozlowski for their generosity in allowing me to analyze their clinical cases; without which this project would not have been possible. Jim Sickles and Dr. Andreiko for their time and support on this project. My family for all their love, support, and guidance over the years.