Advances in fixed appliance design and use: 1. Brackets and archwires

Many new developments in design and materials have made it easier for orthodontists to produce good result with fixed appliances in a shorter time. Orthodontic treatment has also become more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing for patients. This is the first of two papers which are intended to provide an update on fixed appliance design and use, so patients can be informed of relevant advances before they are referred to a specialist for orthodontic advice. Part 1 discusses the developments in brackets and archwires. Part 2 will cover recent advances in ligatures and elastomeric ties, intra-oral auxiliaries, adhesives, products to assist oral hygiene and prevention during fixed appliance treatment, and new methods of debonding.