During the last decade, an increase in the number and variety of fixed molar distalization appliances has been seen. A corresponding evolution in removable appliances has not come about because in order to achieve the desired results good patient co-operation is required and there has been the additional difficulty in obtaining good radicular control which is only possible through extraoral traction. The removable molar splint III allows 1 - 1.5 mm distalization / month to be obtained with good radicular control.

APPLIANCE DESIGN

The appliance is made from a Eureka Spring* with its lower point removed and tapered so as to permit insertion into a 0.045" molar tube. (Fig. 1).

Two hooks are then soldered back to back, one on the cylinder assembly and the other on the plunger assembly. (Fig. 2).

The appliance is made on a Biostar** machine using a 1.5 mm Biocryl*** sheet and two internal clasps are used for retention. The cylinder is fixed with acrylic. (Figure 3)

The plunger is fixed to the cylinder by means of an elastic ligature. It is activated by introducing small segments of wire into the cylinder. (Fig. 4). When the spring is totally compressed the appliance produces a force of 150gr.

Fig. 5 - Patient before treatment

Fig. 6 - 1 month later

Fig. 7 - 3 months later

Fig. 8 - Distalization achieved after 3 months

A. Korrodi Ritto is in the private practice of orthodontics at 115 Mouzinho Albuquerque, 2400 Leiria, Portugal.
Dr. Ritto graduated in general dentistry and received his Ph.D at the Oporto Dental School University.

He is editor of the "Ortodontia" Journal, Revista Virtual de Ortodontia, and secretary of the Portuguese Dento-Facial Orthopedic Society. E-mail Dr. Ritto

* Eureka Spring - 1312 Garden Street, San Louis Obispo, CA 93401
** Biostar - Great Lakes Orthodontics, Lda. 199 Fire Tower Drive, Tonawanda, NY 14150
*** Biocryl - Great Lakes Orthodontics, Lda. 199 Fire Tower Drive, Tonawanda, NY 14150