The mechanical properties of Cr-Ni alloy of austenitic stainless steel and Co-Cr alloy orthodontic wires were studied in tension. The wires (0.018 inch) were tested in the as-manufactured and heat-treated conditions. Instron type tension testing machine was used for this study. Mean values and standard deviations were computed. The results were as follows ; 1. The Cr-Ni orthodontic wires of austenitic stainless steel are generally superior than the Co-Cr orthodontic wires in ultimate tensile strength, In the elongation, however, Co-Cr orthodontic wire and superior than Cr-Ni orthodontic wires. 2. Increase in the degree of strength by heat treatment are more clearly shown in Co-Cr orthodontic wires than Cr-Ni orthodontic wires. And the elongation is decreased by heat treatment in both case. 3. The changes of the degree of strength by cooling method are not clearly shown, but in Cr-Ni orthodontic wires, air cooling are more effectice, in Co-Cr orthodontic wires, cooling effect are scarcely shown.