Orthodontic Assistant Practice Exam

Why must brackets be waxed before cementation?

1. To provide additional strength

2. To avoid slippage during placement

3. To facilitate a proper fit

4. To prevent sticking to instruments

The correct answer is: To prevent sticking to instruments

Brackets are waxed before cementation primarily to prevent them from sticking to the instruments. When adhesive materials are used, there is a risk that the brackets may bond to the placement tools rather than the tooth surface. By applying wax, a barrier is created that reduces adhesion between the bracket and the instrument, allowing for easier handling and accurate placement. This wax layer ensures that the brackets can be positioned precisely where needed on the teeth without the risk of them adhering prematurely to the placement tools, which could complicate the procedure and affect the alignment and bonding effectiveness. While factors such as fit, slippage, and strength are important in orthodontic procedures, they are not the primary reasons for using wax in this context.