[The effect of molar position on the distalization behavior of indirect headgear]

The asymmetric indirect headgear is a frequently used method to achieve an unilateral distalization of a molar. Cases have been observed, however, in which the distalization does not proceed in the way or to the degree predicated by the geometry of the outer bow. Among other factors, this discrepancy can be attributed to the geometry of the inner bow. This study demonstrates quantitatively and qualitatively the influence unilateral mesial movement and/or molar rotation exerts on the force system of the indirect headgear. The study makes evident that a neutralization of the molar's sagittal asymmetrical position by means of adjusting the length of the inner bow cannot be omitted. The study recommends the use of special headgear tubes extended in an oro-vestibular direction to eliminate the asymmetrical dynamics which arise in cause of the mesial rotation of a molar.