July’s Tip

Do not memorize, understand – Dr. T. Mulligan

MOLAR CONTROL, Out-bend and Toe-in, In-bend and Toe-out

The author would like to share with you a simple way of Molar control. This technique will not replace a “bona fide” transverse development of the maxilla or mandible (i.e. Schwarz, Hyrax or Quad-helix appliance), but instead controls the expansion, contraction and rotation of molars.  This technique is useful in minor correction of the molar position. It can be applied unilaterally or bilaterally, at the beginning of the treatment, or during the treatment.

The principles in the horizontal plane are the same as in the sagittal plane.

Minimally one tooth must be by-passed, there should be a long arm and a short arm.  The long arm is pointing in the direction of the force and the short arm is pointing against the direction of the force.

            Out-bend and Toe-in, move the molar buccally and disto-rotate the molar

1. It can be unilateral or bilateral
2. It can be used in the maxilla or the mandible
3. Ligature tie a .018 SS arch wire from the cuspid to the cuspid
4. Place a Tip-back distally to the cuspid and Tip-forward mesially to the molar
5. Bends can be placed intra or extra-orally

     In-bend and Toe-out, moves the molar lingually and mesio-rotates the molar

6. It can be unilateral or bilateral
7. It can be used in the maxilla or the mandible
8. Ligature tie a .018 SS arch wire from the cuspid to the cuspid
9. Place a Tip-forward distally to the cuspid and Tip-back mesially to the molar
10. Bends can be placed intra or extra-orally