The effect of environment (Dry and Natural Saliva) on clasp retention: In vitro study - Part I

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate the importance of environments (dry and wet) to dislodge the clasp. MATERIALS AND METHODS Mandibular test models with natural premolar and molar teeth were used to test four types of clasp (each 12) (Akers, rest plate Akers [RPA], half and half [H-H], and ring clasp) in dry and natural fresh saliva environments. Each clasp was pulled out 10 times with a crosshead speed of 10 mm/min and the force required to withdraw each was measured. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED A paired sample t-test and Wilcoxon test were used. RESULTS There were significant differences between the dry and wet (natural fresh saliva) environment. However, while the mean of the environment for RPA and ring clasp type was significantly different, the H-H and Akers clasp type was not. CONCLUSION The environment has an effect on dislodging the clasp but differs according to the type of clasp.