Abstract

Strategies to Increase Efficiency of the Leveling Phase in “Straight-Wire” Technique

by Fava Francesco

Alignement, leveling, working phase and finishing phase are the 4 main phases in Straight-Wire approach. The aim of the "Leveling phase" -the second phase of the Straight Wire treatment- is to temporarily “flatten” the Curve of Spee in order to allow interarch mechanics. Interarch mechanics would indeed not be possible in presence of deep curve of Spee: unleveled arches could not be approached and matched together. Unfortunately, the leveling phase can require high times to be performed because of the muscular activity of the patient that reduce the leveling action of orthodontic wires. Over that, the forces generated by the orthodontic wires can be too weak to level lower curve of Spee. Aim of the lecture is to suggest some easy and predictable hints and strategies based on Biomechanics to accelerate the leveling phase, thus improving the overall treatment efficiency.

Learning Objectives

After this lecture, you will be able to recognize clinical conditions in which conventional "Straigh Wire" approach can require high times to level the curve of Spee.
After this lecture, you will be able to suggest easy, predictable and repeatable clinical strategies to improve efficiency of the leveling phase in "Straight Wire" technique.
After this lecture, you will be able to use clinical hints to increase overall treatment efficiency in "Straight Wire" technique.