American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Resource to Master Your Orthodontics Certification!

Beta-titanium alloy wires are primarily composed of beta-titanium along with other elements, typically including molybdenum, which enhances their properties. This composition allows beta-titanium wires to exhibit a unique combination of strength, flexibility, and elasticity, making them particularly suitable for orthodontic applications.

The addition of molybdenum is significant because it helps to stabilize the beta phase of titanium at lower temperatures, contributing to the wire's performance, particularly in terms of providing desirable force levels and maintaining form stability under stress. This alloy is especially favored in orthodontics due to its favorable mechanical properties that allow for effective tooth movement while being gentle on the periodontal tissues.

Understanding this helps to appreciate why beta-titanium alloys are a more advantageous choice compared to other materials, which might not provide the same combination of properties crucial for efficient and effective orthodontic treatment.