Controlled, Rapid Uprighting of Molars: A surprisingly Simple Solution The Pivot Arm Appliance.

In orthodontic cases where the regional anatomy provides limited room for eruption, there is etiologically a higher occurrence of tipped/impacted second molars. Although second molar extraction with third molar replacement is a useful option, the "Pivot Arm Appliance" encourages the uprighting of the second molar as a preferred treatment. The most unique and important attribute of the "Pivot Arm Appliance" is the rotating tube. In cases of access limitation, the disto-occlusal surface of the molar presents as one area that is accessible. Other features of the "Pivot Arm Appliance" include: The position of the rotator tube delivers optimal rotational force through the pivoting action of the tube/arm complex. The "Pivot Arm Appliance" takes advantage of the efficiency and simplicity of a Class I lever system. The anatomical fulcrum being the dense cortical bone located anterior to the ascending ramus. The vertical spring system is compact, reliable and delivers gentle controlled force in rotational direction. The lingual location of the "Pivot Arm Appliance" does not hinder the function of the tongue, impinge on the soft tissue or interfere with normal masticatory function. The ease of placement of the rotator tube and subsequent insertion of the spring. It is well to note the uprighting appliance provides a very useful and practical approach to the unique problem of severely tipped second molars with limited buccal access. The "Pivot Arm Appliance" does not function only in these situations but can be used in all cases of second molar uprighting of a moderate to severe nature.

Guiding atypical facial growth back to normal. Part 2: Causative factors, patient assessment, and treatment planning.

It has been well-documented that the most common factors associated with atypical facial growth involve the airway, which when compromised, leads to mouth breathing and associated aberrant tongue function. The most common changes include downward and backward rotation of the mandible, deficient nasomaxillary complex, a vertical growth pattern, posterior displacement of the TMJ, narrow maxillary arch, dental malocclusions, and dental crowding. It is imperative that clinicians recognize, diagnose, and begin treatment as early as possible when facial growth deviates from normal. Several specific diagnostic tools, coupled with traditional diagnostic records, assist the clinician in determining the degree and direction of atypical growth. Such a clear-cut diagnostic process sets in motion the treatment plan requirements necessary to accomplish the goal of returning facial growth to normal. Diagnosis and treatment planning requires that each practitioner has a broad base of knowledge, a good power of observation, and insight into the complex subject of facial growth and development.

Guiding atypical facial growth back to normal. Part 1: Understanding facial growth.

Many practitioners find the complexity of facial growth overwhelming and thus merely observe and accept the clinical features of atypical growth and do not comprehend the long-term consequences. Facial growth and development is a strictly controlled biological process. Normal growth involves ongoing bone remodeling and positional displacement. Atypical growth begins when this biological balance is disturbed With the understanding of these processes, clinicians can adequately assess patients and determine the causes of these atypical facial growth patterns and design effective treatment plans. This is the first of a series of articles which addresses normal facial growth, atypical facial growth, patient assessment, causes of atypical facial growth, and guiding facial growth back to normal.