American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Orthodontics Practice Questions and Study Guide

Beta-titanium wires are known for their superior formability compared to nickel-titanium (NiTi) wires. This characteristic allows beta-titanium to be easily shaped and adapted during treatment, providing orthodontists with greater flexibility in creating various archwire configurations. This property is particularly beneficial when customizing wire forms to fit the specific needs of a patient's dental arch.

While other materials like NiTi also have desirable properties such as shape memory and flexibility, they do not offer the same level of malleability as beta-titanium. This distinction is crucial during adjustments and when adapting wires to individual tooth movements, as it ensures better fit and positioning. Consequently, the formability of beta-titanium can lead to a more efficient treatment process and patient comfort.