Bite-opening mechanics as applied in the Begg Technique

In the Begg Technique, factors controlling the anterior intrusive force provided by the archwire have yet to be fully clarified. The rationale for bite opening with very light forces, the effect of Class II elastics on intrusive force magnitude and the intrinsic quality of 'Australian' wire in bite opening are examined in this paper. A formula is presented which allows the intrusive force that archwires exert in different individuals to be predicted. The values derived from the formula were compared with case model measurements. It was found that the intrusive force of the archwire was affected by the length of the individual dental arch. The magnitude of this intrusive force was seen to increase gradually during the period of bite opening and appeared to be related to the use of Class II elastics. The study revealed factors which affected the magnitude of the intrusive force.