Force delivery properties of colored elastomeric modules.

Elastomeric chains have been used by clinicians for some time to accomplish various treatment objectives. Recently, a number of manufacturers have added colored elastomeric chains to their inventories. The present study was designed to investigate the force delivery capabilities and dimensional stability of these new colored chains. Four different colors of short filament configuration produced by three manufacturers were examined. The force delivery capabilities of each chain were tested at 0 hours and, after storage at 37 degrees C in air, distilled water, and artificial saliva, at 1 hour, 4 hours, 24 hours, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 3 weeks. A universal testing machine was used to determine the amount of distraction necessary to generate 150 and 300 gf. Dimensional measurements were assessed initially and, after exposure to a simulated oral environment, at 1, 2, and 3 weeks. The data from the force delivery portion of the study were analyzed with a 4-factor factorial analysis of variance. The data compiled from the dimensional stability portion were subjected to a 3-factor factorial analysis of variance. Follow-up Bonferroni simultaneous t tests (family-wise a priori alpha p < 0.05) was used to determine statistical significance of the differences among sets of means. All colored elastomeric chains in the study appeared capable of initially generating force levels compatible with tooth movement. After 24 hours of storage in liquid, the amount of distraction needed to produce 150 and 300 gf substantially increased. The amount of increased need varied among manufacturers. All chains showed an increase in dimensional measurements after 1 week, with little change thereafter.