Force Values for Maxiliary Anterior Depression

Abstract

This study was to determine the force value necessary to depress anterior teeth, considering movement of the anchor teeth. The sample consisted of twenty children. Before and after records were taken consisting of models, lateral and 45⁰ oblique cephalometric headplates, and periapical radiographs. Pain response was recorded daily and mobility was recorded weekly. The maxillary anterior teeth were banded and also the two maxillary first molars. Anterior brackets and molar tubes were placed, and a base arch of .018 x .022 was inserted and activated. A “threshold” range from 10 – grams to 20 + grams produced some depression with no molar changes. Pain response in this group was negligible. The 50 and 75 gram force groups generally resembled each other, manifesting no severe pain or molar changes. The 100 gram force group produced maximum depression, although associated with a greater pain response and molar changes. Very light forces are able to produce depression; however, forces operating in the optimal range on the basis of this study.