The objective of this study was to evaluate the adaptability of the four straight-wire brackets bases (Morelli, Unitek, A-Company and Abzil-Lancer) to facial surface of a lower canine. The lower canine facial curvature data to be used in the three-dimensional finite element model were established by 30 Brazilian adult individuals and the brackets bases curvature used were described in a prior study. The three-dimensional finite element analysis of the interface enamel/cement/base of bracket for each tested mark was used. Loads of 1N promoting lateral displacement and torsion had been applied in the center of the base of brackets and the distribution of these efforts on the models was observed as well as the normal and shear tensions generated. The results had shown that the base that better fit to facial surface was the one from Unitek, followed by the A-Company, Abzil-Lancer and Morelli.The brackets deformations were inversely proportional to its adaptation.The biggest peaks of tensions had been situated near to the point of force application. The cement/enamel interface was more likely to fail in the adhesion that the bracket/cement interface. The torsion load was less likely to cause damage in the adhesion when compared with the shear load.
Bracket base; Normal tensions; Shear tensions; Bracket; Finite element
