Effects of intermaxillary elastic traction on orthodontic tooth movement

Intermaxillary elastics are commonly used in orthodontic treatment, yet the exact mechanism by which they effect tooth movement has been unclear. A photoelastic model was produced to stimulate this type of therapy in examples of Class II and III malocclusions. In the open situation, inter-arch activity precipitated occlusal plane rotation; counter clockwise in Class II malocclusion and clockwise in Class III. Comment is made on the force vectors involved when using intermaxillary elastics.