Expanding the horizons of the edgewise arch wire slot

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to introduce an edgewise-type bracket that permits both initial Begg tooth movement and final edgewise torque and tip control with straight arch wires. Analysis of individual tooth movements during treatment of all types of malocclusions with the Begg technique shows that all teeth tend to tip distally or toward extraction sites if present. Given this tendency, it is possible through precise removal of diagonally opposed corners of conventional edgewise slots to permit desired initial free crown tipping yet provide predetermined secondary control of root uprighting as required for each tooth. Treatment can be carried out with four straight arch wires, two 0.016 inch (0.406 mm) and two 0.020 inch (0.508 mm), in conjunction with selective applications of 2 ounce (57 g) forces. Mesiodistal root uprighting and labiolingual torque are achieved with uprighting springs and torquing auxiliaries. Special elastomeric ties and torquing flaps in conjunction with the unique brackets and round molar tubes provide the final option to capture all preangulations (tip and torque) from two full-sized, highly resilient rectangular arch wires.