METHOD OF ENHANCING THE BOND STRENGTH OF AN ORTHODONTIC APPLIANCE TO A TOOTH

摘要

Bond strengths of orthodontic appliances (10) are enhanced by applying heat to heat softenable projections (24) of a bonding base (22) of the appliance (10), and then moving outer portions of the projections (24) in lateral directions to present overhanging regions. The overhanging regions provide undercut areas that mechanically interlock with adhesive when the appliance (10) is bonded to a tooth and the adhesive hardens. The method is useful for plastic appliances as well as other appliances that are made of materials exhibiting thermoplastic characteristics during at least one phase of their manufacture.