A new device (FAQ.FIX®) for orthodontic bracket placement in straight wire technique

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Straight wire preadjusted appliances rely on precise bracket placement for accurate tooth positioning.
• Inaccuracy in bracket placement, including horizontal, axis, vertical, and base errors, compromises treatment outcomes.
• The facial axis point (FA) is critical for defining the correct bracket position.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel bracket positioner, FAQ.FIX®, designed for accurate bracket placement.
• To address common bracket placement errors in direct or indirect bonding procedures.

Main Methods:

• Development of a prototype FAQ.FIX® bracket positioner.
• Integration of the FAQ.FIX® with a Bracket Placement Clinical Chart.
• Description of the developed device and its application.

Main Results:

• The FAQ.FIX® facilitates accurate bracket placement on the facial axis point (FAQ).
• The device helps avoid common bracket placement errors, irrespective of operator skill.
• It is effective even in challenging or complex orthodontic cases.

Conclusions:

• The FAQ.FIX® offers a significant improvement over traditional bracket positioning methods like bracket eyes and gauges.
• Further clinical studies are required to validate the efficacy of the FAQ.FIX®.