Principles of design of active and removable appliances

Removable orthodontic appliances, perhaps more than any other form of mechanical therapy for the movement of teeth, are applicable to general practice. Far too frequently, however, the clinician limits his appliance design to a selective number of appliances with which he is conversant and attempts to modify any one of them to fit a specific situation. This article suggests a different approach. A specific appliance has not been recommended for a specific situation. Instead, the principles of removable appliance design have been elaborated upon according to an established plan. Adherence to the principles should enhance the clinician's ability to provide a more effective and efficient service for his young patients.