During the final stages of orthodontic treatment, which type of wire is preferred?

In the final stages of orthodontic treatment, square wires are preferred because they are effective in achieving the necessary torque and control over the position of the teeth. The square shape allows for better engagement in the brackets, facilitating the movement of teeth into their desired positions with precision. Square wires can provide a more stable fit, which is crucial for fine-tuning tooth alignment and achieving optimal occlusion.

Additionally, square wires can help provide a more efficient transfer of forces to the teeth, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the orthodontic treatment. This characteristic makes them particularly useful in the finishing phases, where detailed adjustments are necessary to achieve a final result that meets the aesthetic and functional requirements of the patient.

Round wires, while often used in earlier stages for initial alignment, do not offer the same level of precision when it comes to controlling tooth movement as square wires do. Rectangular wires have their advantages for various stages of treatment but might not provide the ultimate control required in the finishing phase. Elastic bands are generally used as adjuncts to aid in specific tooth movements rather than being a primary wire type for the final adjustments.