Intrusion mechanics according to Burstone with the NiTi-SE-steel uprighting spring

Intrusion mechanics according to Burstone can be regarded as a practicable method for the intrusion of incisors. 1. By applying the NiTi-SE-steel uprighting spring, relatively constant forces can be exerted over a large range of intrusion on both sides of the anterior tooth archwire. 2. By bending a 150 degrees tip-back bend or a curvature into the steel portion, the uprighting spring presented here is brought into the plastic range of the characteristic curve of force. 3. Application of sliding hooks on the intrusion spring permits readjustment for force transfer onto the anterior archwire. 4. Connecting the anterior archwire with the posterior elements by means of a steel ligature can be recommended only in some cases, because sagittally directed forces may be produced. 5. The adult patients presented showed an average intrusion of 0.6 mm/month, if a linear connection was presupposed. 6. An intrusive effect on the incisors could first be detected clinically after 6 to 8 weeks. 7. Application of a torque-key proves especially useful in controlling the incisor position during intrusion in order to avoid unnecessary radiography. 8. Actual prediction of the centre of resistance with the help of a cephalometric radiograph proved not to be feasible. 9. The calculated maximal intrusion of the mandibular incisors was 7 mm. 10. The torque-segmented archwire with crimped hooks and pseudoelastic springs between the molars and the crimped hooks proved very effective for retrusion and intrusion of maxillary incisors. The maxillary anterior teeth can be retruded by a total of 7 mm without readjustment. 11. Constant moments and forces could be transferred by applying preformed arch wires and segmented arch wires.