Variable modulus orthodontics advanced through an auxiliary archwire attachment

Reducing the load deflection rates of orthodontic springs is important, for it provides relative constancy of the moment-to-force ratio applied to the teeth with concomitant, forecastable dental movement. Increasing patient comfort and reducing the number of office visits while lowering potential tissue damage are additional features of lower load deflection rate springs. A simple auxiliary attachment, which can be crimped into position on an archwire or onto segments of an archwire, is described. This attachment permits the clinician to incorporate a relatively high rate stiff wire to enhance the anchorage of the reactive teeth in one area of the dental arch, while allowing the use of lesser stiffness (lower load deflection rate spring) to engage teeth targeted for movement. The auxiliary allows the clinician various stiffness through the use of wire of one modulus (stainless steel, for example) in one area of the arch, and wire of a differing modulus (NiTi, for example) in another area of the same arch. The advantages and disadvantages of choosing wires of differing moduli are reviewed. Alternative methods of transforming the spring rate through changes in wire cross-section or length are also reviewed. Practical clinical applications of the auxiliary attachment are shown.