LOW FORCE ORTHODONTIC ARCH WIRE HAVING ENGAGEMENT BLOCKS FOR IMPROVED TREATMENT

摘要

Low force orthodontic arch wires (100) include a core wire (102) formed of a material having shape memory that extends along a generally curved arch wire axis between a first end (102a) and a second end (102b). The arch wire (100) further includes a plurality of bracket engagement blocks (104) disposed in spaced apart relationship along the length of the core wire (102). Each engagement block (104) is configured for placement within the slot of a corresponding orthodontic bracket with which it works to move the teeth in a desired direction. The engagement blocks (104) are advantageously enlarged relative to the core wire (102), providing for better engagement and reduced play between any given engagement block (104) and its corresponding bracket slot as compared to if the engagement blocks (104) were not present. The engagement blocks (104) may be disposed relative to the core wire (102).