Introduction: Orthodontists have been using metallic biomaterials extensively since its inception. Some of the most frequent drawbacks of employing metallic alloys in the production of orthodontic appliances are poor friction control, allergic reactions, and metal ionic release. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of nanoceramic coating on the topographical and mechanical properties of stainless steel (St.St.)orthodontic wires. Materials and methods: 0.019×0.025 inch gauged 30 St.St. archwires were divided into 3 groups: SA: uncoated wires; SB: wires coated with silicon carbide; and SC: wires coated with aluminum oxide. Physical magnetron sputtering technique was used to nanocoat the wire samples with silicon carbide and aluminum oxide. EDX was used to confirm the sample coating, SEM and optical microscopic investigation were used to examine the sample surface texture. Frictional force was evaluated by sliding wire samples through ceramic brackets using a universal testing machine. The wire-bending behaviour was evaluated through a three-point bending test using a universal testing machine. Results: EDX revealed that Samples were nanocoated with nanoceramic particles, fewer surface flaws and irregularities were noted on nanocoated samples. Significant decreases in the maximum force were recorded during the friction test for nanocoated samples compared with uncoated samples. No significant differences were recorded in the force during loading and unloading or the amount of permanent wire deformation after wire bending between coated and uncoated steel wire samples. Conclusion: Nanoceramic coating enhances surface texture and decreases the friction between orthodontic wires and brackets without significantly changing the wire bending behaviour.
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