Molar uprighting in the adult patient : the NiTi-Se steel spring

AIM:To show the various benefits of molar uprighting from periodontal, orthodontic, and restorative view points, and to evaluate the indications, the advantages and disadvantages of the nichel-titanium (NiTi-SE) steel uprighting springs. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This type of spring has been employed to upright 63 molars of 33 patients. It consists of a combination of superelastic material (0.16x0.22 inch titanol) which is linked with a steel wire (.17x.22inch) by means of a crimped cross connector. Gnathologic aspects, such as extrusions and intrusions, tooth mobility, gingival bleeding, mesial infrabony pocket, tooth movements timing, and pain were assessed. RESULTS: The Authors determined that, in wide areas, the pseudoelastic side transfers constant moments and forces to the molars. In addition, it is possible to apply intrusive forces over the whole uprighting area by bending and adjusting the steel portion. CONCLUSION: If an anchoring segment provides the required stability, this uprighting spring is an effective method to upright molars quickly and without periodontal or gnathologic problems.