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Dr. Wier's Quick Guide to Simplifying Mechanics

Written by POS Course Adviser | 4/17/19 11:31 PM

Want to know the key to success when it comes to orthodontic mechanics? Dr. Shockley Weir has your answers in this quick and easy blog!

To be successful in the mechanics phase, you must understand the tools you have to control or close spaces. Loops, holes, and bends can sometimes get confused with each other, but this quick guide will help you master them. Learn the difference between Key Holes and T-Loops, and when to use each of them.


The Keys to a Key Hole
Key Hole
 
A Key Hole is stiffer and is the FIRST choice for ALL sliding mechanics.
 
Remember that in sliding mechanics, all the teeth are moved at the same time as opposed to getting the cuspid Class I and then working on the incisors separately. In order to achieve this, a coil or elastic is hooked to the Key Hole, allowing spaces to close and Class I to be achieved.
 
 
Tackling the T-Loop
T-Loop

A T-Loop is primarily designed for cinch back mechanics and is frictionless.

With cinch back mechanics, you’ll obtain cuspid Class I and then cinch the T-Loop to close the space distal to the 2’s.

While a T-Loop can be used like a Key Hole, because it is less stiff than a Key Hole, be aware that it will NOT hold torque as well. You’ll find that the incisor will de-torque past the retraction limit of the chosen archwire-bracket combination.

 

Selecting the Snoopy Bend
Snoopy Bend

T-Loops are often a good choice when mild/moderate vertical control is needed. You can choose to place a Mesial Squeeze on the T-Loop or a create a Snoopy Bend, based on your desired outcome.

It is recommended that both be done extraorally for better control and to ensure these were done correctly and that the wire wasn’t distorted, which will cause unwanted movement.