Frequently Asked Questions

How do you activate?

Activation is automatic. A constant light force (150-200mg) is delivered. When the patient bites down, the plungers/springs are compressed and the force rises from 150grams to 200grams.

 

What archwire should I use?

Rectangular S.S. .017” x .025” (.018 slot) and .018” x .025” (.022 slot) minimum, this will help prevent intrusion. The archwire lock can fracture a Nickel/Titanium archwire, so they are not recommended.

 

How about breakage?

There were some issues initially, but we have added a brazing operation during assembly that greatly reduces breakage in May 2001.  At the same time we also improved the archwire lock screw.

Will it flare the incisors?

Yes, you need to use chain elastic, or figure 8 wire tie bracket to bracket molar to molar, plus cinch back bends in the archwire distal to the last bracket.

 

Does the locking mechanism go up or down?

The archwire locks are on a ball joint that can rotate 360 degrees. It is the clinicians’ choice to place the screw gingival or occlusal.

 

How do you measure the patient?

ORIGINAL TWIN FORCE BITE CORRECTOR

To measure for the ORIGINAL version:

  • Have the patient bite down.

  • Measure from the distal edge of the lower cuspid bracket to the distal end of the upper molar facebow tube.   (A  gingival facebow tube is recommended).

  • If the measurement is 29mm or greater the doctor would order the 424-210 standard version.

  • If the measurement is less than 29mm, the doctor would order the 424-211 small version.

DOUBLE LOCK TWIN FORCE BITE CORRECTOR

To measure for the DOUBLE LOCK version:

  • Have the patient bite down.

  • Measure from the distal edge of the lower cuspid bracket to the mesial end of the upper molar tube.

  • If the measurement is 27mm or greater, the doctor would order the 424-215 standard version.

  • If the measurement is less than 27mm, the doctor would order the 424-216 small version.

Retention

Use vertical or box elastics to maintain a good buccal occlusion to maintain lower arch stability.

 

How much orthopedic and orthodontic correction will I get?

About 75-80% of the correction is dento-alveolar in the short term. Long term changes on the condyle and temporo-mandibular fossa are accomplished with the establishment of a good buccal occlusion.

 

During which stage should I use this appliance?

During the intermediate stage of treatment.

 

Can it be used unilaterally?

Yes, but you need to tie off (anchor) the opposing side to prevent a crossbite.

 

Which Twin Force Bite Corrector should I use?

You can use either Twin Force Bite Corrector.  The original or double lock versions come in two sizes (standard and small).  The patient needs to be measured to ascertain which size to use (see How to measure the patient).