Friction or Frictionless: What is the Most Effective Method for Retracting Anterior Teeth?

Objective:To evaluate the effectiveness of the friction (sliding mechanism with elastomeric chains) and frictionless (T-loop) methods for retracting anterior teeth in Angle Class I malocclusion. Methods: This clinical intervention study examined the duration of maxillary incisor retraction from August 2022 to August 2024 in 42 adult patients who had completed canine retraction. The process involved resolving horizontal and vertical discrepancies, establishing a Class I relationship between the canines, and altering the overbite (the interproximal space between the lateral incisors and canines) until an ideal overbite index of 2 mm was achieved. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was conducted before and after retraction to evaluate alveolar changes and speed.