American Journal of ORTHODONTICS

Founded in 1915 Volume 82, Number 5 November, 1962

Copyright 0 1982 by The C. V. Mosby Company

ORIGINAL ARTICLES

The segmented arch approach to

space closure
Dr. Burstone
Charles J. Burstone, D.D.S., MS.
Farmington, Conn.

The clinical application of frictionless attraction springs using the segmented arch technique is described.
Differential space closure is achieved by varying the force system between the anterior and posterior segments.
A specially designed force transducer allowed accurate force and moment determination for each spring design.
By duplicating predetermined spring geometries, the orthodontist can reproduce the required force system within
narrow ranges. The most important considerations in the clinical use of attraction springs are the amount of distal
activation, the angulation differential between the anterior and posterior teeth, and the centricity or eccentricity of
the loop. Improvements in design have lead to a more efficient, hygienic, and comfortable mechanism for space
closure.

Key words: Segmented arch technique, extraction, spaceclosure, forces, retraction, protraction

Specialized precalibrated springs and as-

semblies for space closure have been an integral part of
the segmented arch technique in the treatment of pa-
tients requiring extraction therapy.‘, * New knowledge
concerning the biomechanics of spring design, along
with the development of new materials, has made pos-
sible improvements which simplify the mechanics,
improve the biologic response, and offer a more hy-
gienic appliance.3-J
At least six goals should be considered for any uni-
versal method of space closure: (1) Differential space
closure. The capability of anterior retraction, posterior
protraction, or a combination of both should be possi-
ble. (2) Minimum patient cooperation. Headgear and
interarch or intermaxillary elastics should not be a
major component in controlling differential horizontal
tooth movement during space closure. Their depen-
From the Department of Orthodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University
of Connecticut Health Center.
This work was supported by NlHiNIDR Research Grant DE-03953.
0002-9416/82/l 10361+ 18$01.80/O 0 1982 The C. V. Mosby Co.
dence on patient cooperation is reflected in a lack of
precision and may limit treatment possibilities. Head-
gear and elastics may have other applications in treat-
ment. (3) Axial inclination control. (4) Control ofrotu-
tions and arch width. (5) Optimum biologic response.
This includes rapid tooth movement with a minimum
lowering of the pain threshold. In addition, tissue
damage, particularly root resorption, should be at a
minimum. (6) Operator convenience. The mechanism
should be relatively simple to use, requiring only a few
adjustments for the completion of space closure.
In order to achieve these objectives, the clinician
must have an appliance which delivers the required
force system.6 He should also be aware of how root
length and the nature of the periodontal support will
influence the force system. Emphasis in this article will
be on design principles and the clinical usage of attrac-
tion mechanisms for space closure. Since some patients
may require protraction of posterior teeth and others
will require anterior retraction, I use the general term
attraction to describe the over-all process of space clo-
sure or the appliances used for that purpose.
361

Fig. 1. Composite TMA 0.018-0.017 by 0.025 inch retraction
spring. A 0.018 inch round T spring is welded directly to a 0.017
by 0.025 inch base arch.
; = 6.0
1126 gm-mm 1002 gm-mm
201gm
Direction of Tooth
Movement
Fig. 2. The change in the force system after 1 mm. of canine
retraction using the spring shown in Fig. 1. Force magnitude
decays only 33 mm. To obtain 201 Gm., 6 mm. of activationis
required.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE FORCE SYSTEM
Precise control over centers of rotation of teeth and
the biologic response during space closure, regardless
of the appliance used, requires an optimal force system
with certain characteristics. Our understanding of these
characteristics is the key to predictable attraction. To
illustrate the characteristics of the force system, the
composite TMA 0.018-0.017 by 0.025 inch retraction
spring will be used (Fig. 1). Typically, the spring is
activated 6 mm. and delivers approximately 201 Gm.
of distal force at the start of retraction (Fig. 2). After
the canine moves distally 1 mm., the force will be
reduced by 33 Gm. to 168 Gm. The rate of decay of the
force ( FX ) is called the load-deflection rate, and it
averages 33 Cm. per millimeter. The low load-deflec-
tion rate i.simportant in this spring. since it cnahles the
orthodontist to deliver optimal magnitudes 01’ three.
High-load deflection springs as vertical loops dissipate
force rapidly: hence, one must activate to very high
force levels in order to produce any significant tooth
movement.
For example, for a typical vertical loop in a 0.0 I8
by 0.025 inch steel wire, the load-deflection rate might
approximate 1,000 Gm. per millimeter (the actual force
is dependent on the exact shape). For controlled tipping
movements around the apex of the canine, 100 Gm. is
more than adequate force. A millimeter activation of
the edgewise vertical loop would produce an exces-
sively high force of 1,000 Gm.; moreover, as the
canine moves, the force magnitude changes rapidly
(100 Gm. for every 0.1 mm. of movement). Since the
load-deflection rate is so high, it would be impossible
for a clinician to activate the loop to produce an op-
M timum magnitude of force. To deliver 200 Gm. of
T z 5.6
force, the required activation would be 0.2 mm. Not
only is it practically impossible to activate such a small
distance, the force of 200 Gm. would be dissipated
rapidly over the remaining 0.2 mm. of activation.
Thus, orthodontists who use high-force load-deflection
mechanisms must use high force values that have un-
desirable sequelae, which include anchorage loss. pain,
and undermining resorption. In contrast, a retraction
spring with a low load-deflection rate of 33 Gm. per
millimeter allows for the delivery of optimal force
> levels, since an error in activation of 1 mm. results in
an error of only 33 Gm. Furthermore, as teeth move
distally, the reduction in force is small. giving greater
constancy of force at optimal levels.
At a 6 mm. activation, along with the 201 Gm. of
force, a moment which tends to move the canine root
distally is created (Fig. 2). The moment value approx-
imates 1,129 Gm .-mm. The moment-to-force ratio on
the canine is 5.6, which suggests that the center of
rotation of the canine as it tips distally approaches the
apex. After 1 mm. of retraction, the moment-to-force
ratio is almost the same (6.0). We are thus observing
two important characteristics of our force system: ( 1)
The required moment-to-force ratio to give us the
needed center of rotation and (2) the change of the
moment-to-force ratio as the tooth moves
It is desirable to maintain a constant center of rotation
during retraction of the anterior teeth. This necessitates
a relatively constant M/F ratio where (5X$3) is
small. On the other hand, we should purposely increase
the M/F ratio on the posterior teeth to enhance anchor-
Volume 82 Segmented arch approach to space closwe 363
Number 5

age during space closure. As the clinical use of the

segmented arch attraction mechanisms are described,
the above characteristics of the force system should be
kept in mind. They are (1) force magnitudes and direc-
tion, (2) force constancy (low load-deflection rates), (3)
proper moment-to-force ratios, producing the desired
centers of rotation, and (4) force constancy, that is,
control over the change in moment-to-force ratio with
respect to deflection.
The attraction mechanisms that will be described
are basically frictionless springs. All of the required
force system is built into the springs, and one does not
depend upon an arch wire along which the brackets
slide for control. We have rejected the concept of slid-
ing mechanisms because of the high frictional values
that are inherent since brackets are so far from the
centers of resistance of teeth. In recent years, so-called
power arms or extensions have been used to deliver the
force closer to the centers of resistance of the teeth.
Although this eliminates a great amount of the friction
for sliding mechanisms, the force is never placed
exactly at the center of resistance and frictional prob-
lems still exist which make prediction of the force sys-
tem poor.
The attraction mechanisms described in this article
usually have 6 to 7 mm. distal activations. Although it
is convenient to have large activations since few reacti-
vations are required, the major reason for the large
activation relates to the delivery of an optimal force
system. Large activations are required to deliver opti-
mal levels of force and to deliver them more constantly.
It is to our advantage to have the lowest load-deflection
rate possible, and with a low load-deflection rate a large Fig. 3. Posterior anchorage unit. A, Posterior teeth are con-
activation is required in order to build up the needed nected by a buccal (stabilizing) segment from second premolar
to second molar. B, Upper 0.036 inch stainless steel trans-
force level. The fact that few reactivations are needed is
palatal arch. C, Lower 0.036 inch stainless steel low lingual
a pleasant by-product of this force system and the way arch.
it is developed.
teeth. En masse space closure in the segmented arch
ANTERIOR RETRACTION (GROUP A ARCHES)
techniques uses two principles-the two-tooth concept
It is convenient to classify an extraction arch by the and segmental movement.
differential space closure required between the anterior Early in treatment, the posterior teeth are joined
and the posterior teeth. A Group A arch is one in which together to form a posterior anchorage unit. The an-
posterior segments must remain in their original posi- chorage unit consists of the right and left posterior teeth
tion and the full space is used for anterior retraction. A which are connected by a buccal stabilizing segment
Group B arch requires that approximately one half of and a transpalatal lingual arch in the maxillary arch and
the space be used for retraction. A Group C arch re- a low lingual arch in the mandibular arch (Fig. 3).
quires that approximately all space be closed by pro- During space closure, conceptually one should think of
traction of the posterior teeth. only two teeth-an anterior tooth comprising the in-
Group A arches tend to be of two types: In one the cisors and the canines which have been connected and a
anterior teeth are badly crowded, and separate canine posterior tooth which includes molars and premolars.
retraction is indicated. In the other the anterior teeth The attachment on the posterior tooth (segment) is a
have adequate arch length, and the movement that is 0.018 by 0.025 inch auxiliary tube on the first molar,
needed is en masse space closure of all six anterior and the one on the anterior tooth (segment) is an auxil-
 ANTERIOR
SEGMENT

A
Fig. 4. Specialized attachments on the first molar and canine,
Gingivally placed horizontal and vertical auxiliary tubes are
used to connect the anterior segment and posterior segment
during attraction and en masse root movement.

iary vertical tube on the canine bracket (Fig. 4). Al-

though adjustments are still possible within the indi-
vidual segments during space closure, the orthodontist
should concern himself primarily with only the force
system that will be applied to the anterior and posterior
auxiliary tubes.
The two-tooth concept has a number of advantages
during space closure which are not found in continuous
arch therapy:
I. Working between the two auxiliary tubes sim-
plifies the determination of the force system. In a con-
tinuous arch, one must be concerned with the actions
and reactions between all attachments which makes it
practically very difficult to determine the forces and
calibrate an attraction mechanism. Using the two-tooth
concept, only the forces between two attachments need D

be analyzed.
2. A large distance between the molar and the ca-
nine auxiliary tubes allows for a superior and more
conveniently used force system. The load-deflection
rates are lowered, and the shapes of the springs are not
so critical in producing both the desired force and the
moment-to-force ratio. Furthermore, with the large ac-
tivations that are required, they are easily placed in the
mouth.
3. The rigidity of the anterior and posterior seg-
ments is not dependent upon the attraction mechanism.
Typically, it is necessary to have less rigid springs for
attraction springs and greater rigidity for control of the
anterior and posterior units. Rigidly connecting the
teeth of the anterior and posterior units allows the
clinician to maintain the desirable tooth positions which
are obtained during initial alignment and many times
are present at the beginning of treatment.
4. Wires of increasing rigidity may be used in the
anterior segment independent of the attraction springs
to align the anterior teeth simultaneously with space
closure. In most patients, however, one should use a
relatively rigid wire as soon as possible to obtain full
control over the incisor axial inclinations.
5. Extraneous forces are minimized in the posterior
teeth since buccal segments remain in place and are not
continually changed as with therapy requiring different
Fig. 5. Types of segmental en masse space closure.A, Blocks
represent anterior and posterior segments. 8, One-stage trans-
lation. C and D, Two-stage space closure. The ant&or seg-
ment is initially tipped around a center of rotation near the
apices of the incisors. Root movement follows with a center of
rotation near the incisor bracket.
arches or continual adjustment and retying of a given
arch.
The principle of en masse space closure, using
segmental movement, is demonstrated in Fig. 5. The
block diagrams represent the anterior and posterior
segments. In Fig. 5, B, the space is closed by translat-
ing both the anterior and posterior segments as a unit.
This is the approach taken in Group B arches. In Group
A arches, where one would like to prevent posterior
segments from displacing anteriorly, two stages of
space closure are accomplished (Fig. 5, Cand D). In the
first phase the anterior segment is tipped with a center
of rotation near the apex of the incisors, followed by a
second phase of root movement where the center or
rotation is moved occlusally to the bracket or the incisal
edge (en masse root movement). This form of en masse
space closure differs from other techniques. For in-
stance, with Begg treatment, all six teeth are retracted;
however, each tooth has its own center of rotation re-
quiring individual root springs on each of the teeth for
Volume 82
Number 5
Fig. 6. The 0.018-0.017 by 0.025 inch composite anterior re-
traction spring (upper arch). Premolars will be extracted at this
stage in treatment. Retraction spring inserts into the vertical
tube on the canine and the horizontal tube on the first molar.
correction of both mesiodistal and labiolingual axial
inclination. In segmental space closure, all of the teeth
in the anterior segment, since they are treated as a unit,
remain in good first- and second-order alignment to
each other. If root movement is required, only one root
spring is needed on a side.
True segmental movement, that is, treating the an-
terior segment as a unit, is easily carried out on patients
who have correct axial inclinations between the canines
and the incisors relative to each other. If a discrepancy
exists, separate canine or incisor root movement may
be indicated following space closure, or some correc-
tion is possible during space closure.
With incisor roots that are too far lingual, en masse
anterior movement can be carried out; however, rigid-
ity is needed only in the first- and second-order direc-
tions. Freedom of movement in a third-order direction
can be allowed. For example, if the incisors are mark-
edly flared, the anterior segment can be undersized to
allow roots to displace anteriorly during space closure.
In the lower arch, where the canines eventually must be
translated distally but the incisors are to be tipped
around the apex, the entire anterior segment is tipped
around the apex of the lower incisor. During en masse
root movement, the anterior segment is rounded or un-
dersized so that, as the canine root is moved distally,
the incisor roots will not be moved to the lingual.
Anchorage control during en masse space closure
In patients with Group A arches, where little an-
terior displacement of the posterior teeth is allowed,
two stages of space closure are planned-en masse
controlled tipping followed by en masse root move-
ment. The calibrated mechanism is a composite TMA
spring comprising two different cross sections of wire,
Segmented arch approach to space closure 365
Fig. 7. During activation, an activation moment is produced by
the vertical loop and the T loop, tending to move roots into the
extraction site. The T loop design is superior, since more wire is
placed apically. The improperly designed double vertical loop
produces no moment, since wire lies occlusal to the brackets.
a 0.018 inch round T loop welded to a 0.017 by 0.025
inch base arch (Fig. 6).
As has been pointed out previously, the T loop
tends to optimize design by placing additional wire
further apically. Fig. 7 shows three loops-a vertical, a
double-vertical loop with one arm falling occlusally
below the level of the brackets, and a T loop. In order
to control the root apices so that they do not displace
forward, a moment (root distal and crown mesial) must
be applied by the retraction mechanism. A typical ver-
tical loop produces a moment tending to move the
canine root distally, but the moment-to-force ratio is
too low. By placing additional wire apically, as in the
T loop, the magnitude of this moment increases with
respect to the force. The double vertical loop design
is improper, since additional wire falling occlusally
completely eliminates the needed moment, and no
moment whatsoever is produced during activation. It is
not the amount of additional wire that is placed in the
loop that is important but, rather, where the wire is
placed. The additional wire serves two purposes: It
lowers the load-deflection rate and at the same time, if
properly placed, increases the moment-to-force ratio.3
In earlier designs that were used with the segmented
arch technique, helices were placed to lower the load-
deflection rate. With the introduction of beta-titanium
wire (TMA), it has been possible to simplify the design
so that a T loop by itself will have a relatively low
load-deflection rate and a large maximum springback.
The heavier base arch which fits into the auxiliary tube
of the first molar is important, since it allows positive
orientation of the spring and, more significantly, it is
capable of withstanding, without permanent deforma-
tion, the higher moments that are needed for anchorage
control. Furthermore, the use of a heavier base arch
tends to increase the moment-to-force ratio on the an-
terior teeth, since any bending in the occlusally posi-
tioned part of the spring tends to minimize this ratio. It
should be noted that the retraction spring is not centered
but is positioned mesially. The rationale for eccentric
positioning will be discussed in greater detail later. In
this instance, it is used to enhance the moment-to-force
 B position < position
2571 gm-mm 1126
0
201 gm -B h-201
M M
- = 12.6 - = 5.6
F F
Fig. 8. Force systems produced at 6 mm. activation
0.017 by 0.025 inch anterior retraction spring.
moment-to-force ratio between the anterior
tion) and the posterior segment (6 position).
the p position is instrumental in anchorage
ratio (better anchorage control) on the posterior seg-
ment during space closure and give better axial-incli-
nation control over the anterior teeth.
Fig. 8 describes the basic force system. The forces
and moments are those that are produced at a full acti-
vation of 6 mm. Depending upon the activation, this
force system can be varied somewhat so that the num-
bers that are given should be looked upon as represen-
tative. The forces are delivered to two teeth, an anterior
tooth (segment) and a posterior tooth (segment). For
convenience, it is useful to talk about the two positions
where the spring is attached. The alpha (a) position is
the vertical tube on the canine and the beta (/3) position
is the horizontal tube on the first molar. A summary of
the force system follows:
1. The force is 201 Gm. in a distal direction (alpha
position) and 201 Gm. mesially (beta position).
2. An alpha moment of 1,126 Gm .-mm. and a beta
moment of 2,571 Gm.-mm. are produced.
3. A 63 Gm. vertical force is present in an intrusive
direction at the alpha position and in an extrusive di-
rection at the beta position.
The alpha moment-to-force ratio is 5.6, which im-
plies that the center of rotation during space closure
would approach a point near the apex of a typical in-
cisor. The beta moment-to-force ratio on the posterior
segment is 12.8. This ratio suggests that if the posterior
teeth move forward at all, the roots will displace at a
faster rate than the crowns. The load-deflection rate of
the spring averages 33 Gm. per millimeter.
Clinical use
The force system from the retraction assembly has
been measured using an apparatus which simulta-
gm-mm
gm
Fig. 9. Angulation bends are placed in the retractron spring to
of 0.016
increase the moment-to-force ratio. Geometry of spring with C.C
Note differential
angulation bends and a fl bend in front of molar tube.
segment (CX posi-
Large moment at
control. neously measures forces and moments at both the alpha
and beta positions.‘. ’ This allows the assembly to be
calibrated in such a manner that the clinician need only
duplicate the proper shape to the wire in order to get the
desired force system. The distal force is produced by
the number of millimeters of activation. From Table I.
it can be seen that 6 mm. of activation is required to
produce approximately 200 Gm. of force. Although the
spring during activation produces moments in the de-
sired direction, they are insufticient to deliver the
needed moments and differential M/F ratios between
the anterior and posterior segments. For that reason,
angulation bends are placed in the springs. as shown in
Fig. 9. The bends in a 0.018 inch round spring are
referred to as alpha bends, and the tip-back bend im-
mediately in front of the auxiliary tube on the molar is
called the beta bend. These bends will vary somewhat,
dependent upon the intertube distance. However, the
described shape is representative of what is needed at
the beginning of space closure in most situations.
It is very important to place the angulation bends
properly, since the neutral position of the spring can be
affected. This is true not only of the assemblies and
segmented arch-attraction springs but of any loop. If a
gable or angulation bend is placed in a loop, the loop
will tend to cross when it is engaged in the adjacent
brackets and, therefore, the magnitude of force will be
greater than anticipated.:’ The retraction spring is
shaped so that if moments alone are used to place the
spring into the auxiliary tubes, the vertical arms of the
spring will be 1 mm. apart. Thus, the neutral position.
the position where force is 0 Gm., is I mm. To aid the
clinician in achieving the proper angulation, templates
are used. Rather than to measure the angles, it is more
expeditious to duplicate the shape of the spring from a
template. The exact shape of each spring described in
Volume 82 Segmented arch approach to space closure 367
Number 5

Fig. 11. To activate springs, either the base arch is bent gingi-
vally at distal aspect of molar tube (lower) or a rope ligature tie
(upper) is used.

COMPOSITE RETRACTION SPRING t.0 18”-.017” x .025”)

Fig. 10. En masse retraction. A, A 0.021 by 0.025 inch anterior 25-1 , , , , , , , , , , ( ,

segment is in place for true segmental space closure with a 0 .s 1.0 15 2.0 25 3.0 35 4.0 4.5 50 5.5 60
0.017 by 0.025 inch TMA attraction spring. 6, Low-stiffness Deflection (mm)
multistrand wire in the anterior segment allowed canine to re-
tract to gain space for anterior alignment. Following alignment, Fig. 12. The load-deflection rate is low and relatively constant.
a rigid anterior segment was placed. Rate is lowest at full activation.

this article is based on the templates found in the seg-
mented arch syllabus (University of Connecticut,
1982). Tables giving the force system are based on
these templates.
En masse retraction springs which are used for re-
traction of six anterior teeth are shown in Fig. 10. The
anterior retraction spring is initially activated 6 mm.
Tooth movement is allowed to proceed until approxi-
mately 3 mm. of space is closed, and then the spring is
reactivated (Fig. 11). In certain cases, it may be neces-
sary to contour springs somewhat labiolingually for
comfort and if a shallow mucobuccal is present, a
shorter spring is used. It should be remembered that the
higher the spring is occlusogingivally, the greater the
activation moment-to-force ratio will be, with better
control over axial inclinations.
Detailed force system
The force system and the change in forces over a
range of 6 mm. of activation is shown in Table I. The A
column gives the number of millimeters of activation,
and other columns to the right give the force system. At
6 mm. of activation, the force is 201 Gm. For each
millimeter of space closure, the force will drop about
33 Gm. The load-deflection rate is plotted in Fig. 12.
Note that the load-deflection rate is relatively constant
and has a tendency to be smaller at higher activations,
which is the range where the spring is used. Many
springs, like vertical loops, tend to increase their load-
deflection rate with increasing activation. Since we do
not want the force to decay rapidly within activation
range, it is advantageous to have the lowest load-de-
flection rates at the maximum activation.
By definition, the neutral position is that position of
activation where the spring delivers no horizontal
force. In the first line of the table, the force system for
the neutral position (0 mm. activation and 0 Gm. force)
is given. The moment at the neutral position is referred
to as the residual moment. In the alpha position (M,), it
is 231 Gm.-mm., and in the beta position (M,) it is
2,358 Gm.-mm. As the assembly is activated, both the
horizontal force and the alpha and beta moments in-
crease for each millimeter of activation. The rate of
increase of the beta moment is not as great as that of the
 COMPOSITE RETRACTION SPRING (.O 18”- .O 17”~ ,025”)

COMPOSITE RETRACTtON SPRING (.018”- .017”x .025”)

0’ I ) I , , , , , , I , , I I I 1 I I I I I
0 .5 1.0 15 2.0 2.5 30 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0 5.5 6.0 5 IO I5 20 25 3.0 35 4.0 4.5 5.0 5.5 A.0
Deflection (mm) Deflection hm)

Fig. 13. The slope of (Y moment is steeper than that of p mo- Fig. 14. Differential moment-to-force ratios between the 01 and @
ment, reflecting eccentric placement of the T loop and the two positions. As spring deactivates, a tip-back effect is placed on
wire cross sections. the posterior teeth.

Table I. Composite anterior (canine) retraction spring (TMA 0.018-O. 17 by 0.025 inch)
1 F,, FL, MCI MP FlA M,,IF MfiiF
(mm .) (cm.) (cm.) (Cm.-mm.) (Cm.-mm.) (Cm.-mm.) (mm.) (mm.)

0.0 0.0 113.5 231 I -2,358.4 0.0 0.0 0.0

0.5 15.4 107.7 322. I -2,384.5 30. I 22.3 171.9
I .o 33.0 102.1 414.6 -2,408.8 35.3 12.6 74.7
1.5 50.8 97.1 496.6 -2.431.4 35.7 9.8 48.3
2.0 68.5 92.4 575. I -2,450. I 35.3 8.4 3.5.9
2.5 84.7 87.5 655.0 -2,470.2 32.6 7.7 29.2
3.0 102.3 83.2 728.7 2.488.2 34.7 7.1 24.3
3.5 118.7 79.4 797.6 -2.506.0 33.4 6.7 21.1
4.0 135.6 75.9 869.3 -2,521.6 33.8 6.4 18.6
4.5 151.9 72.4 940.4 -2535.3 32.3 6.2 16.7
5.0 167.7 69.1 1,001.6 -2,550.4 31.6 6.0 15.2
5.5 183.9 65.9 1,070. I -2,559.6 32.5 5.9 13.9
6.0 200.6 63.3 1,126.4 -2,571.4 33.2 5.6 12.8

i = Distal activation.
F,, = Horizontal force.
F\ = Vertical force.
M,,Anterlor moment.
Mp = Posterior moment.
F/h = Load-deflection rate.
M,,/F = Anterior moment-to-force ratio.
MB/F = Posterior moment-to-force ratio.

alpha moment. The two slopes of the alpha and beta
moments in respect to deflection can be seen in Fig. 13.
The difference in the rate of increase between alpha and
beta moments is very important in producing a unique
force system. It allows a differential in the moment-to-
force ratio change (v)
This can be appreciated if M/F is plotted against de-
flection (Fig. 14). Note that the alpha moment-to-force
ratio remains about the same from about 6 mm. to 3
mm. or less of activation. Thus, with an initial 6 mm.
activation as the teeth retract 3 mm., there is little
change in the center of rotation on the anterior teeth.
On the other hand, the beta moment-to-force ratio rap-
as the spring deactivates.
idly increases as space closes. The objective of the
anterior retraction mechanism is to give good control
Volume 82 Segmented arch approach to space closure 369
Number 5

over the center of rotation of the anterior segment as it Table II. Variation in force system
retracts and to minimize mesial displacement of the (standard deviations) TMA 0.018 by
posterior segment. A brief discussion of how this is 0.025 inch retraction spring
accomplished follows. Nonstandard springs
The alpha moment-to-force ratio during the range A ML2 MP
of activation from 6 mm. to 3 mm. remains relatively (mm.) (Gm.-mm.) (L-i-., (Gm.-mm.)
constant (Table I). At 6 mm., the moment-to-force
1.0 63.4 4.8 161.5
ratio is 5.6; at 3 mm., it increases to 7.1. This small 1.5 61.3 4.1 160.2
increase tends to move the center of rotation slightly in 2.0 63.6 3.3 158.0
an apical direction but, for all practical purposes, the 2.5 64.6 3.6 157.1
center of rotation is relatively constant. This should be 3.0 65.1 4.0 156.1
3.5 71.1 3.2 155.7
compared to a retraction mechanism such as a vertical
4.0 70.8 3.4 156.0
loop where the moment-to-force ratio within I mm. of 4.5 71.6 4.5 157.5
deactivation can change radically. This concept will be 5.0 74.7 4. I 157.6
considered in further detail in the section on en masse 5.5 76.5 6.1 159.0
translation. Large angulations are placed in the 0.018 6.0 83.1 5.7 160.2

inch component of the spring, with alpha angulations h = Distal activation.

averaging 105 degrees. This angulation is responsible M, = Anterior moment.
for the residual moment in the alpha position of 231 Mp = Posterior moment.
Gm.-mm. Since the activation is large, the clinician has FH = Horizontal force.

great leeway in using the springs to approach the de-

sired force system. A few degrees error in the angula-
tion will not significantly change the M/F ratio or the
center of rotation of the anterior segment. Similarly, as
the anterior teeth retract and their axial inclinations
change, a few degrees would not significantly alter the
center of rotation. By contrast, for vertical loops with
their small-angulation bends (gable bends), the shape is
very critical and, as the teeth move, the centers of
rotation of the anterior teeth change markedly.
Anchorage control with the TMA retraction spring
is accomplished in a number of ways. The forces that
are used are relatively low in magnitude. The initial
forces are under 200 Gm., with an average force of
about 150 Gm. during the retraction period. The low
load-deflection rate allows the clinician to determine
accurately the magnitude of this force and an error of 1
mm. would produce an error of only 33 Gm. The
springs are prefabricated, which allows their geometry
to be constant, and hence the force system can be accu-
rately calibrated in the laboratory. The key to anchor-
age control of the posterior segment is not only the low
force magnitude but, even more, the differential of
moment-to-force ratio between the alpha and the beta
positions. The moment-to-force ratio at the posterior
segment is much higher, being 12.8 at 6 mm. of acti-
vation. After 3 mm. of retraction, the moment-to-force
ratio increases to 24.6. Thus, as space closes initially,
the posterior segment would translate forward or the
roots would move slightly forward, if there is move-
ment at all. After some space is closed, the moment-to-
force ratio increases to the point where the spring pro-
duces a definite tip-back action on the buccal segment.
In a sense, then, one could recoup any space loss pro-
duced during the beginning of space closure. Anchor-
age control is a function not only of the initial moment-
to-force ratio on the posterior segment that prevents
these teeth from tipping into the extraction site but also
of a gradually increasing ratio which, during space clo-
sure, produces a definite tip-back action. The control of
anchorage is also related to the posterior anchorage unit
of multiple teeth rigidly joined together with buccal
stabilizing segments and a lingual arch.
The force system given in Table I is based on a
typical spring shape and tube geometry. However, it
may be necessary to modify the force system, depend-
ing upon individual patient needs. Although it is not
common, some patients might require a center of rota-
tion closer to the center of resistance of the upper in-
cisor and, if so, the moments in the alpha position can
be reduced. If one is able to place the center of rotation
at the apex of the upper incisors, in many patients with
flared incisors root movement at a later stage is not
necessary.
The bend that would be varied the most is the beta
angulation. In the prototype given, at 6 mm. of activa-
tion, (M/F), is 12.8. For translation of a posterior seg-
ment forward, the ratio might more closely approach 10
to 1. The 12.8 ratio gives a safety factor in minimizing
anchorage loss. However, too much moment could
eventually create a steepening of the upper plane of
occlusion or too much tip-back on the molars. If this
presents a problem, some reduction in the beta moment
is indicated. Typically, the beta angulation can vary
between 25 and 35 degrees. If a headgear is attached to
 -
400 gm - I 1Omm
c-- 400gm
Fig. 15. En masse root spring using a 0.017 by 0.025 inch TMA
wire. The roots of all six anterior teeth are moved as a unit. In
this instance, root movement is being carried out before spare
(yp10 (~~ZlO
closure.

Fig. 16. A 10: 1 moment-to-force ratio produces translation if

the posterior segment, depending upon direction and the brackets are 10 mm. from the center of resistance. Transla-
point of application, moments which alter the balance tion can be produced with a single force placed 10 mm. apical to
of moment-to-force are created. This must be taken into the brackets (lower diagram) or by applying a force and a
consideration in the beta angulation. For instance, in an couple at the bracket (upper diagram). The effect is identical.

open-bite situation, one might not place any beta angu-

lation in the base arch and, instead, rely on an occipital
headgear posterior to the center of resistance to develop
the necessary moment to prevent the posterior segments
from tipping forward.
The data that are presented are based upon a typical
intertube distance before space closure. The force sys-
tem from the standardized spring geometry will change
somewhat, depending upon the intertube distance. In
addition, the moment-to-force ratios needed are depen-
dent upon the geometry of the teeth, particularly the
root length and the nature of the periodontal attach-
ment. It is important for the clinican to monitor his
patients carefully and to modify the moment-to-force
ratio in both the alpha and the beta positions when
required. For example, the space closure in periodon-
tally involved teeth where the alveolar crest has been
lost requires lurger moment-to-force ratios, since the
center of resistance will be found further apically.
Variation in the force system can also be produced
by operator error in duplicating the shape of the spring.
To test this variation, a laboratory technician fabricated
three springs approximately, using a template with min-
imum attention to accuracy. Each spring was tested
three times for a total of nine sets of data. Table II gives
the standard deviations for the entire group of springs.
The standard deviation for the horizontal force at 6
mm. of activation was only 2.9 percent; variation for
Ma and M, was larger (7.4 percent and 6.2 percent).
Some of the variation, such as variation in the cross
section of the wire, is not under the control of the
orthodontist. Greater accuracy by the orthodontist in
reproducing the shape of the spring can reduce the
variation; however, as shown by the above data, the
retraction springs are relatively unforgiving of mistakes
in shape and activation.
Following en masse tipping movement, the entire
anterior segment is moved as a unit with a center of
rotation near the bracket of the central incisor. Fig. 15
shows a 0.017 by 0.025 inch TMA root spring. The
spring is basically a straight wire between the auxiliary
tube of the molar and the vertical tube of the canine. A
welded 0.018 inch TMA vertical pin inserts into the
canine vertical tube. V-bends or curvatures are placed
to produce the desired moments. During the time of
root movement, it is not necessary to replace either the
posterior anchorage unit or the anterior segment. The
root springs act beyond simple root movement in that
they function to align the anterior and posterior seg-
ments in three dimensions. Similar to retraction, one
should think of root movement as a two-tooth move-
ment between the anterior tooth (segment) and the
posterior tooth (segment).
EN MASSE TRANSLATION FOR
GROUP B ARCHES
Patients who require equal displacement for both
the anterior and posterior segments can take advantage
of en masse translation. Since en masse translation re-
quires greater force magnitudes, and since practically
the center of rotation is not constantly maintained, a
greater anchorage loss of the posterior segments is in-
evitable.
Ideally, one would like to deliver a force system as
shown in Fig. 16. If one assumed a 10: 1 moment-to-
force ratio for translation (the ratio is dependent on the
root-alveolar bone geometry and the axial inclina-

I I
01 02
I
03
I
04
I
05
I
06
I
07
I
08
I
QV
I
IO
Activation (mm)
Fig. 17. Change in moment-to-force ratio of a 6 mm. high verti-
cal loop. A rapid change occurs in the M/F ratio over 0.1 mm. of
deactivation. The center of rotation of a typical incisor moves
from the apex (M/F = 7.0) to translation (M/F = lO.O), and then
to the bracket (M/F = 12.0).
tions of teeth; hence, this number is given only a repre-
sentative value) 4,000 Gm.-mm. and 400 Gm. should
be delivered to the anterior and posterior segments. A
method for producing this force system would be to
place a gingival extension 10 mm. below the level of
the brackets and to attach a rubber elastic at this point.
Unfortunately, it is not practical to have a gingival
extension placed so far apically. It should be noted that,
with the elastic, the moment-to-force ratio would be
constant at 10: 1 throughout the period of space clo-
sure, although the force magnitude is reduced.
If a vertical loop is used for space closure, it is
difficult to obtain the 10: 1 moment-to-force ratio from
the activation moment (the moment automatically pro-
duced by activation). A vertical loop could be extended
gingivally to 10 mm., and the moment-to-force ratio
would be only 4: 1. Even with the addition of wire
gingivally, as in a T loop, it is not possible with one
cross section of wire to deliver a 10: 1 moment-to-force
ratio by the activation moment alone.
Since a vertical loop does not deliver high enough
moment-to-force ratios for a translation, it has been
common practice to place a gable bend or angulation so
that a residual moment is produced. Fig. 17 shows the
change in moment-to-force ratio for 1 mm. activation
of a 6 mm. high vertical loop (a 20 degree angulation
with an 8.4 mm. interbracket distance). At 1 mm. of
activation, the moment-to-force ratio is under 3. At this
point in time, the tooth is tipping, with the crown mov-
ing in one direction and the root in the opposite direc-
Segrnmted urch approach to spnw do,sura 371
Fig. 18. A 0.017 by 0.025 inch TMA attraction spring. T loop is
centrally placed between canine and molar auxiliary tubes. Typ
ical activation is 7 mm.
tion. After 0.5 mm. of tooth movement, the root is still
being displaced labially, but not so much as the
moment-to-force ratio approaches 5.0. Only after the
teeth have moved 0.8 mm. does the moment-to-force
ratio approach 6 and 7, where one would expect con-
trolled tipping around the apices of the incisors. Thus,
even with the gable bend for the first 0.8 mm., one has
little more than uncontrolled tipping, with a center of
rotation somewhere between the apex and the center of
resistance. In the last 0.2 mm., the center of rotation
rapidly changes, so that the teeth first tip around the
apex, translate, and then finally correct their axial in-
clinations, rotating around a point of the crown. If the
vertical loop is left in long enough, the axial inclina-
tions of the teeth will give the appearance of genuine
translation. In reality, what has happened is that the
teeth at first tipped with roots being displaced forward,
followed at a later stage by root movement lingually.
The rapid change in moment-to-force ratio with the
vertical loop is problematic. Biologically, it is not de-
sirable to keep changing areas of stress in the periodon-
tal ligament. It is also very difficult to produce the
moment-to-force ratios that are needed. An error of 1 or
2 mm. in activation completely changes the center of
rotation. As has been pointed out previously, in order
to use a vertical loop or any loop, one must know the
neutral position (the position where the force is zero).
when a gable bend is placed in the loop, the amount of
activation is automatically increased, since the vertical
arms cross and the neutral position is changed. If the
orthodontist does not recognize this, he might be acti-
vating 2 mm. instead of what he believed to be 1 mm.
This could lead to either permanent deformation of the
loop and/or moment-to-force ratios that are too low,
leading to uncontrolled tipping movements. Overall,
the vertical loop with gable bends is very unforgiving
Fig. 19. Typical angulation required for the 0.017 by 0.025 inch Fig. 20. Shape of 0.017 by 0.025 inch TMA attractjon sprmg
attraction spring. A 0.018 or 0.020 inch TMA wire is welded used for protraction of posterior teeth. Loop is placed off center
anteriorly for insertion into the canine vertical tube. to the distal aspect. Angulation bends are increased as the LY
position is approached. Anterior part of spring is to the left.

Table III. Attraction spring TMA 0.017 by 0.025 inch centered

A Ml2 MP FIA MC/F MgIF
(mm.) ,& (ilk, (Gm.-mm.) (Gm.-mm.) (Gm.-mm.) (mm.) (mm.)

0.0 0.0 4.9 1,361.9 - 1,410.4 0.0 7. -7

0.5 28.4 5.4 1,464.o -1.501.8 55.1 52.0 53.4
1 .o 50.1 5.5 1,556.l -1,583.7 43.6 31.2 31.7
1.5 72.1 6.1 1,641.l - 1,663.4 44.1 22.8 23.1
2.0 94.7 6.6 1,724. I - 1,740.3 44.8 18.2 18.4
2.5 116.7 1.2 1,801.2 - 1,815.7 43.7 15.4 15.6
3.0 140.7 8.0 I ,875.S -1,887.l 47.8 13.3 13.4
3.5 162.7 8.6 I .943.5 -1,955.l 45.0 12.0 12.0
4.0 185.0 9.4 2,009.5 -2,019.9 44.6 10.9 10.9
4.5 208.8 10.1 2,074.9 -2,085.9 46.9 9.9 10.0
5.0 232.9 10.9 2,131.2 -2.145.6 49.4 9.2 9.2
5.5 257.5 11.6 2,187.5 -2,206.3 48.9 8.5 8.6
6.0 281.8 12.3 2.243.8 -2,261.6 48.6 8.0 8.0
6.5 307.3 12.9 2,293.8 -2.316.9 50.7 7.5 7.5
7.0 333.4 13.6 2,348.8 -2,361.6 52.0 7.0 7.1

a = Distal activation.
F,, = Horizontal force.
F\. = Vertical force.
M,, = Anterior moment.
MB = Posterior moment.
F/rl = Load-deflection rate.
h&,/F = Anterior moment-to-force ratio.
MS/F = Posterior moment-to-force ratio.

of shape inaccuracies and inaccuracies in the amount of
distal activation. The TMA attraction spring has been
designed to eliminate many of the problems inherent in
the use of a vertical loop (Fig. 18). The key to its
design is the attempt to make the moment-to-force ratio
more constant. This is accomplished by lowering the
load-deflection rate of the spring and by the use of the T
loop design, which increases the activation moment by
placing wire more apically. Unfortunately, this is not
sufficient to give a high enough moment-to-force ratio
for translation, and a large residual moment must be
placed in the spring. Overall, the effect is similar to that
of a vertical loop where the moment-to-force ratios in-
crease during deactivation, but this change is more
gradual and hence biologically sounder and more con-
trollable.
The spring is placed centrally between the two aux-
iliary tubes for two reasons. The most important is that
it allows the same rate of change of the moment-to-
force ratio in both the alpha and the beta positions.
Volume 82 Segmented arch approach to space closure 373
Number 5

Furthermore, it is simpler to place a symmetrical angu- Table IV. Variations in force system
lation in the spring. A typical angulation is shown in (standard deviations) TMA 0.017 by
Fig. 19, and the force system of this spring is given in 0.025 inch attraction spring (standard
Table III. spring)
At the neutral position, there are relatively equal A MO
moments in the alpha and beta positions, with the alpha (mm.) ,G?Il%U?l., (Gm.-mm.)
moment 1,362 Gm.-mm. and the beta moment 1,410
1.0 43.6 2.2 61.3
Gm.-mm. It should be noted that this spring requires a
1.5 40.1 2.2 59.8
rather large residual moment. Let us now follow what 2.0 41.8 2.2 56.4
happens to the spring beginning with the force system 2.5 39.8 3.3 50.7
at 7 mm. of activation. At 7 mm., the alpha and beta 3.0 34.1 2.6 46.7
moments are approximately equal-2,349 Gm.-mm. 3.5 35.0 2.6 43.5
4.0 33.7 3.5 38.1
and 2,368 Gm.-mm. The moment-to-force ratio is 7.0
4.5 29.4 4.2 33.9
in both the alpha and the beta positions, and hence the 5.0 25.3 4.0 29.8
teeth would be expected to undergo controlled tipping 5.5 26.9 4.1 24.5
near their apices. The centers of rotation that are de- 6.0 24.5 5.1 18.3
scribed in this section are only representative; neverthe- 6.5 23.2 5.3 14.7
7.0 20.4 6.2 11.5
less, the trend in change of these centers applies to any
clinical situation. The actual moment-to-force ratios A = Distal activation.
required for different centers of rotation will vary, de- M, = Anterior moment.
FH = Horizontal force.
pending on the teeth and their support. As the teeth
Mg = Posterior moment.
move 1 mm., the moment-to-force ratio is 8.0. The
center of rotation has moved slightly past the root apex
in an apical direction. After the teeth have moved 2
in Table IV are based on averages from five springs
mm. (M/F = 9.2), translation begins; after 3.5 mm. of
which were shaped as accurately as possible. The stan-
movement (M/F = 12), root movement is initiated;
dard deviations are considerably under 1 percent for all
and at 4 mm., it is continuing. The moment-to-force
forces and moments. During space closure, the loop of
ratio is increased over 3 mm. of tooth movement but,
the spring should be maintained centrally between the
unlike the simple vertical loop, this change is gradual.
two auxiliary tubes. A welded vertical pin (0.018 or
The(v) for 1 mm. of deactivation at 7 mm. of 0.020 inch TMA) is welded anteriorly for insertion into
the vertical tube of the canine. The posterior part of the
activation is only 1. With a vertical loop,
assembly is bent distal to the first molar or a tie-back
large with tipping, translation, and root movement oc- loop is welded to the spring (Fig. 11).
curring over 0.2 mm. The greater constancy of the
moment-to-force ratio of the TMA attraction spring POSTERIOR PROTRACTION FOR
GROUP C ARCHES
simplifies the determination of the force system and
gives a better biologic response. Nevertheless, one still The challenge of space closure lies at two extreme
must carefully observe the progress of space closure situations-Group A arches where posterior anchorage
and, on the basis of this monitoring, determine the must be preserved and the Group C arches where
appropriate time for reactivation. During the first stages posterior teeth must be brought forward through most
of space closure, some tipping of the posterior and of the extraction site. It is an error to close the extrac-
anterior segments should be noticed. The spring should tion site blindly and then rely on intermaxillary elastics
nor be reactivated and should be left in place until the or headgear to correct an intermaxillary discrepancy or
axial inclinations are correct. Normally, this means that an asymmetry in occlusion. For example, in some
no new activation is required until approximately 3 Class II patients, it is far better to carry out differential
mm. of space closure has been produced. If one were to mechanics to allow mandibular posterior teeth to be
leave the spring in place after 3 mm. or so of space displaced forward.
closure, no further space will close; if it is left in place There are two possible strategies for encouraging
too long, exaggerated root correction would be ob- posterior teeth to move forward. The first of these in-
served, followed by increased space in the extraction volves the placement of differential residual moments
site. in the alpha and beta positions. Fig. 20 shows the pas-
With carefully bent springs, using a template, vari- sive shape of a 0.017 by 0.025 inch attraction spring.
ation is at a minimum. The standard deviations shown The loop has been posteriorly positioned (one third of
 Fig. 21. Posterior protraction with a 0.017 by 0.025 inch TMA attractjon spring. Placing the loop off
center encourages posterior teeth to displace forward.

Table V. Posterior protraction TMA 0.017 by 0.025 inch posterior positioned

---__
1 FH Fb M,, MB F/A MJF MpIF
(mm.) (Cm.) (Cm.) (Cm.-mm.) (Cm.-mm.) (Cm.-mm.) (mm.) (mm.)

0.0 0.0 137.6 2S73.9 -214.6 0.0 x x

0.5 35.5 122.4 2.570.0 -367.3 70.0 12.5 10.4
I .o 74.3 108.5 2,561.g -516.2 78.1 34.5 7 0
I .5 113.5 95.4 23558.0 -664.7 77.4 22.5 5.9
2.0 153.1 82.9 2,543.0 -809.7 78.7 16.6 5.3
2.5 190.5 71.5 23533.2 -947.8 75.3 13.3 5.0
3.0 230.1 60.9 2,518.9 - I ,080.2 79.8 10.9 4.7
3.5 269.2 50.4 2,502.4 - 1.215.2 78. I 9.3 4.5
4.0 309.0 40.3 2,486.R - 1,346.4 79.6 8.0 4.4
4.5 348.4 31.2 2.480.4 - I ,477.6 78.4 7.1 4.2
5.0 387.4 22.6 2,472.5 - 1,595.5 79.0 6.4 4.1
5.5 427.2 14.1 2,461.3 -1,715.7 79.1 5.8 4.0
6.0 466.4 6.7 2,448.g - 1,832.O 79.1 5.2 3.9

h = Distal activation.
F,, = Horizontal force.
Fv = Vertical force.
M,, = Anterior moment.
Mg = Posterior moment.
F/A = Load-deflection rate.
M,/F = Anterior moment-to-force ratio.
MB/F = Posterior moment-to-force ratio

the interbracket distance from the molar tube) and the
angulation bends are increasingly larger as one ap-
proaches the alpha position. The force system that is
produced is given in Table V. At the neutral position,
very little moment is produced in the beta position (214
Gm .-mm.) and a very large moment in the alpha posi-
tion (2,574 Gm.-mm.). At 4 mm. of activation, 309
Gm. is produced. Let us now compare the moment-to-
force ratios between the alpha and beta positions fol-
lowing a 4 mm. activation. At the 4 mm. activation, the
beta moment-to-force ratio is 4.4. Since the auxiliary
tube lies 1 mm. apical to the bracket slot, one might
anticipate tooth movement approaching controlled tip-
ping around the apices of the posterior teeth. As the
spring deactivates over 2.5 mm., the moment-to-force
ratio will rise slightly to 5.9. Thus, controlled tipping
with a relatively constant beta moment-to-force ratio is
present throughout 2.5 mm. of space closure. The
alpha moment-to-force ratio at the 4 mm. activation is
8 .O. The anterior segment might retract initially a small
amount; however, after 1 mm. of space closure, the
ratio is 10.9, and if the anterior teeth move at all, they
would tend to translate lingually. After 2 mm. of deac-
tivation, the alpha ratio is 16.6. In this range, as the
spring continues to work out, any anterior movement
would be reflected by crown flaring and lingual root
Volume82 Segmented arch approach to space elosure 375
Number 5

Posterior Segment Anterior Segment

100 gm (FE) 185 gm WS) 185 gm (FS)

?- +- <
285 gm (FT)
>

Fig. 22. Force system for posterior protraction using a Class II Fig. 23. Posterior protraction using force system described in
elastic or a Class Ill elastic. The anterior segment will resist Fig. 22. Class II elastic increases force to the posterior seg-
lingual movement while the posterior segment tips forward. ment. Angulation in spring prevents the incisors from tipping
Moments are built into a centrally placed 0.017 by 0.025 inch lingually.
TMA attraction spring.

Table VI. Posterior protraction attraction spring TMA 0.017 by 0.025 inch centered with 100 Gm. elastic
M,iF MB/F
(nit.) (2, (2) (mm.) (mm.)

0.0 0 100 100 1,362 1,410 x 14.1

0.5 28 100 128 1,464 1,502 52.0 11.7
1.0 50 100 150 1,556 1,584 31.2 10.6
1.5 12 100 172 1.641 1,663 22.8 9.7
2.0 95 100 195 1,724 1,740 18.2 8.9
2.5 117 100 217 1,801 1,816 15.4 8.4
3.0 141 loo 241 1,876 1,887 13.3 7.8
3.5 163 100 263 1,943 1.955 12.0 7.4
4.0 185 loo 285 2,009 2,020 10.9 7.1

3 = Distal activation.
Fs = Horizontal force of spring.
FE = Horizontal force of elastic.
M, = Anterior moment.
Mp = Posterior moment.
FT = Total horizontal force on posterior segment.
M,/F = Anterior moment-to-force ratio.
MB/F = Posterior moment-to-force ratio.

movement. Differential mechanics are in effect; this
allows the posterior teeth to move forward by con-
trolled tipping and the anterior teeth (if they move at
all) to move slightly labially. A side effect is possible
anterior extrusion because of the vertical extrusive
force on the incisors.
This spring is designed to encourage posterior pro-
traction by utilizing the following principles: (1) the
loop is placed off center; this produces a more constant
center of rotation in the beta position. By contrast, in
the alpha position, the moment-to-force ratio rapidly
increases so that if these teeth move at all, they will
tend to move forward rather than posteriorly. (2) The
force is kept under 300 Gm. to minimize anterior re-
traction or root movement. Buccal protraction using
0.017 by 0.025 inch TMA off-center attraction springs
is shown in Fig. 21.
The second strategy that can be used for displacing
posterior segments forward uses a symmetrically placed
attraction spring with the use of either Class II or Class
III elastics. By using intermaxillary elastics during
space closure, one can minimize some of the side ef-
fects that would be evident if the same elastics were
used after all space is closed, and the entire arch must
be displaced. In lieu of elastics, protraction headgear
may also be considered.
The TMA attraction spring is centrally placed be-
tween the auxiliary tube of the first molar and the verti-
cal tube of the canine. Typical angulation is placed as
in previously described Group B arches where en masse
Table VII. Posterior protraction attraction spring TMA 0.0 17 by 0.025 inch centered with I SOGin. elastic
.--_-.--...
1 F.5 Me MU MJF M,jIF
(mm.) (Cm.) (& (c”n:., (Cm.-mm.) (Cm.-mm.) (mm.) I mm )

0.0 0 150 150 1,362 1,410 7 9.4

0.5 28 150 178 1,464 1,502 52.u x.4
I .o 50 150 220 1,556 1,584 31.2 1.9
1 .s 12 150 222 1,641 1,663 22.8 1.5
2.0 95 150 245 1,124 1,740 18.2 7.1
2.5 117 150 261 1,801 1,816 15.4 6.X
3.0 141 150 291 1,876 I.887 13.3 6.5
3.5 163 150 313 1,943 1,955 12.0 6.2
4.0 185 150 335 2,009 2,020 10.9 6.0

A = Distal activation.
F, = Horizontal force of spring.
F, = Horizontal force of elastic.
M, = Anterior moment.
MB = Posterior moment.
F., = Total horizontal force on posterior segment.
M,,/F = Anterior moment-to-force ratio.
MB/F = Posterior moment-to-force ratio.

translation is desired. The spring is activated 4 mm.
instead of the typical 7 mm. Fig. 22 shows the force
system that is developed, incorporating both an attrac-
tion spring activated to 4 mm. and an intermaxillary
elastic of 100 Gm. The vertical forces of the elastics are
not considered. The anterior segment at the alpha posi-
tion will feel the force from the spring (F,) and the
moment (MU). The posterior segment will feel two
forces-the force from the spring (F,) and the force
from the intermaxillary elastics (FE), giving a total
force (FT). A differential moment-to-force ratio is pro-
duced between the anterior and posterior segments
since the force is different between anterior and
posterior segments. Tables VI and VII give the force
system, in its entirety, for elastics of two different
strengths (100 Gm. and 1.50 Gm.). For a 150 Gm.
elastic, during 3 mm. of deactivation starting from a 4
mm. activation, the beta moment-to-force ratio will
increase from 6.0 to 7.9. Over this distance, the poster-
ior teeth will tip forward with a center of rotation apical
to the apices of the roots. The alpha moment-to-force
ratio at 4 mm. is 10.9, implying translation or lingual
root movement, and increases to 31 after 3 mm. of
space closure. Overall, during space closure, the in-
cisors will tend to come forward and/or their roots will
move lingually (Fig. 23). By reducing the elastic force
to 100 Gm., slightly higher /3 moment-to-force ratios
can be produced, so that after space closure less poster-
ior root correction is required. The tables give two
possibilities in producing a differential force system.
Others are possible, either by altering the alpha and
beta moments through angulation in the attraction
springs or by increasing or decreasing the force of the
intermaxillary elastics.
In comparing the two strategies for posterior pro-
traction, with and without intermaxillary elastics, the
choice depends upon the treatment objectives. By plac-
ing a loop off center, one can produce a differential
moment-to-force ratio; however, this is produced at the
expense of vertical extrusive forces in the anterior seg-
ment. If one contemplates intruding or has intruded the
anterior teeth, this method is not indicated. The use of
intermaxillary elastics may alter the plane of occlusion,
and particularly Class II elastics may undesirably
steepen a plane of occlusion, erupting incisors in a
Class II patient. This undesirable side effect can be
minimized or eliminated by the use of a headgear to the
upper arch which would produce a moment with re-
spect to the center of resistance that flattens the plane of
occlusion.
Since relatively low forces are capable of retracting
six teeth, there is little logic to separate retraction of
canines followed by retraction of the four incisors. For
that reason, only patients who have anterior arch-length
problems with anterior crowding require separate
canine retraction. The force system that is used for
retraction of the canine is similar to that for en masse
space closure. The composite retraction spring is used
in Group A arches, and the attraction spring is em-
ployed in Group B and C arches (Fig. 24). The differ-
ence lies in rotational control of the canine, which is
achieved with a non&ding mechanism. Antirotation
Volume 82
Number 5
Fig. 24. Canine retraction with a 0.017 by 0.025 inch TMA
attraction spring (lower right). Antirotation bends have been
placed in the spring. Rotation is controlled without the friction of
a canine bracket sliding on an arch wire.
bends are placed in the retraction assemblies to prevent
the canine from rotating as it retracts. It is also possible
to use an arch wire to prevent rotation.
The TMA composite 0.017 by 0.025 inch retraction
assembly is shown with antirotation bends (Fig. 25).
Not only are bends and twists placed in the area of the
spring, but a toe-in bend is placed immediately in front
of the first molar. The angulation and distal activations
are usually identical to those used for en masse space
closure.
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
Treatment objectives differ in the extraction case
from anterior retraction to posterior protraction. Differ-
ential mechanisms can be successful because of differ-
ences in the force system that they produce. It is impor-
tant to control not only the magnitude of the force but
also the moment-to-force ratios which produce the de-
sired centers of rotation. In addition, a differential
moment-to-force ratio between the anterior teeth (alpha
position) and the posterior teeth (beta position) is in-
strumental in anchorage control. It is desirable to main-
tain a constant force level, and this was achieved by
designing springs with low load-deflection characteris-
tics. The rate of change or constancy of the moment-
to-force ratio during deactivation typically is small.
This constancy is varied between the anterior and pos-
terior teeth to enhance anchorage and to control anterior
axial inclinations.
Space closure by control of the force system is
meaningful only if the clinician can practically produce
the force system. The mechanisms that have been de-
scribed are predictable for a number of reasons. The
springs have been calibrated in the laboratory so that,
Segmented arch approach to space closure 377
Fig. 25. Canine retraction. Antirotation bends are placed in a
0.017 by 0.025 TMA composite retraction spring. All other acti-
vations are similar to en masse retraction.
for any given activation, both the forces and moments
are known at both ends of the spring. The attraction
mechanisms are prefabricated, and hence the geometry
and wire cross sections are accurately duplicated.
Moreover, the design of the springs uses the principle
of low load-deflection rates and moment-deflection
rates. These low rates ensure that the springs must have
large distal activations and large angulation bends.
With large activations, a clinical error of 1 mm. or so or
of a few degrees is not that significant. Finally, the
force system is predictable since we are basically deal-
ing with frictionless springs and are not dependent upon
sliding teeth along an arch wire for control.
Certain design features have been incorporated into
retraction springs to optimize the force system:
1. The material used is beta-titanium, which sim-
plifies the design and allows for direct welding of ma-
terials. TMA has excellent spring-back properties with
good formability. The wire cross sections are kept as
small as possible, limited by the moments needed
rather than the force. In one spring, a composite spring
uses a heavier-base arch in order to ensure that an ade-
quate beta moment is produced.
2. Additional wire that is placed into an attraction
spring or loop is critical. Additional wire should be
placed as far apically as possible to increase the activa-
tion moment-to-force ratio. Indiscriminant placement
of wire will reduce the moment-to-force ratio. The T
loop design is employed to enhance this ratio.
378 H~rr.srorw

3. The loop centricity affects the rate of change of for that reason canine retraction should be employed
the moment-to-force ratio in the alpha and beta posi- only in those patients in whom anterior crowding is
tions. If equal rates of change are required, loops present.
should be centrally placed. Where greater moment-to- Attraction mechanisms which deliver highly pre-
force ratio constancy is required, loops should be dis- dictable forces have been described. They are charac-
placed off center in the direction of those teeth (seg- terized by large activations; however, they deliver rela-
ment) where constancy is needed. tively low force magnitudes. Since activations are
4. The large interattachment distance between the large, it is not necessary and it may be undesirable to
auxiliary tube on the first molar and the vertical tube of reactivate them frequently. Reactivation depends on
the canine allows sufficient room for the large activa- careful monitoring of how space closure is proceeding.
tions required. In addition, it adds to the accuracy of An understanding of the force system and where and
determining the force system, since small errors in the how to modify it, with an appliance that is capable of
shape or geometry of the spring will not radically delivering a predictable force system, adds a new di-
change the forces produced. mension to the closure of space in the extraction case.
Variation in moment-to-force ratios as well as force
magnitude might be required for different clinical situ- REFERENCES
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2. Burstone, C. J .: Mechanics of the seymented arch technique,
amount of activation according to force tables. He may Angle Orthod. 36: 99-120. 1966.
also alter the moment-to-force ratio by changing either 3. Burstone. C. I., and Koenig, H. A.: Optimizing anterior and
the angulation or the amount of activation. Typically, canine retraction, AM. 5. ORTHOD. 70: I-20, 1976.
this is accomplished by increasing or decreasing the 4. Goldberg, J.. and Burstone, C. J.: An evaluation of beta
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since with calibrated springs the orthodontist need only odontic alloy, AM. J. ORTHOD. 7: 121-132, 1980.
reproduce a shape and decide on the number of milli- 6. Burstone, C. J.: Application of bioengineering to clinical orth-
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Company. pp. 230-258.
anywhere mesiodistally. With the attraction springs de- I. Solonche, D. J., Burstone. C. J., and Vanderby, R.: A device
scribed in this article, the general rule is as follows: If for determining the mechanical behavior in orthodontic appli-
the posterior teeth and the anterior teeth are to move ances, IEEE Trans. Biomed. Eng. 24: 538-539, 1977.
relatively equal amounts, the loop is centered. If 8. Koenig, H. A., Vanderby, R., Solonche, D. J., and Burstone,
C. J.: Force systems from orthodontic appliances: An analytical
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The attraction mechanisms that have been described springe in orthodontics, J. Biomech. 7: 21-28, 1974.
10. Baeten. L. R.: Canine retraction: A photoelastic study, AM. J.
are applicable to both the en masse space closure and
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canine retraction. En masse space closure is the prefer-
able movement, since the force system is simpler, and