Information on titanium braces
Titanium braces are made of titanium, as opposed to stainless steel. These braces are traditionally fitted on individuals allergic to other metals, such as stainless steel. Titanium braces allow for more accurate finishing and reduced repositioning during treatment. They offer an increased affinity for adhesives. Braces made of titanium also offer increased shock absorbency and bond retention, as compared with braces made of other types of metals. However, titanium braces are not without drawbacks--they are considerably more expensive than other types of braces.
Properties
Titanium is a light, white transition that is the ninth most prevalent element found in the Earth's crust. It is naturally resistant to corrosion. This metal has a high melting point at around 1,700 degrees Celsius; one of the highest melting points of any known metal. Titanium boils at temperatures exceeding 3,287 degrees Celsius, according to Los Alamos National Labs.
Strength
Titanium braces are the strongest on the market. According to Los Alamos National Labs, titanium is around 60 percent heavier than aluminum, yet it is twice as strong. Titanium, while around 45 percent lighter than stainless steel, is just as strong, according to Lenntech.
Tensile Strength
Titanium is ductile, meaning that it will bend under pressure. However, titanium has a relatively high tensile strength; it takes quite a bit of pressure to pull titanium apart. According to Key to Metals, titanium has a tensile strength of between 30,000 and 200,000 lbs. per square inch.
Health Effects
Perhaps the biggest reason that consumers choose to be fitted with titanium braces, as opposed to traditional stainless-steel braces, is that their body has allergic reactions to most metals. Consumers should not have an allergic reaction to titanium braces. Adverse reactions to titanium only occur with exposure to titanium powder. Inhaling titanium dust can result in pain and tightness in the chest. Irritation may occur when titanium powder comes in contact with the skin.
Coefficient of Expansion
Titanium has a very low linear coefficient of expansion, as compared with other metals such as stainless steel and copper. Linear coefficient of expansion refers to the length a metal expands as it is heated to near its melting point. According to Key to Metals, as it heats, titanium expands at a rate of 5.0 X 10^-6 of an inch per degree Fahrenheit. Stainless steel expands at a rate of 7.8 X 10^-6 of an inch per degree Fahrenheit.
Tags: stainless steel, Titanium braces, 10^-6 inch, 10^-6 inch degree, According Metals