Evaluation of the biomechanical and structural characteristics of aesthetic brackets (ceramic and polycarbonate): a literature review

Abstract

To describe and compare the biomechanical and structural characteristics of esthetic brackets (polycarbonate and ceramic), highlighting how these characteristics can interfere with the results of orthodontic treatments. This research is a literature review of articles published in platforms and databases, such as: SciELO, CAPES, PePsico and Medline. Aesthetic brackets can be found in two biomaterials: polycarbonates and ceramics. Both are used in orthodontic practice, but they have some limitations, especially when it comes to color change and resistance to orthodontic forces. Ceramic brackets are more aesthetic and more resistant when compared to polycarbonate, but they have limitations when compared to metallic ones. Ceramic brackets have superior biomechanical and aesthetic characteristics than polycarbonates, but both can be used in orthodontic practice.