Timothy J. Tremont, DMD, MS
Private practice, White Oak, Pa
Clinical Assistant Professor, West Virginia University
The Tremont Cantilever Wrap Around Appliance is ideal for maxillary retention with a well-finished occlusion that includes the second molars. The cantilever arm provides support to the labial bow and eliminates the need for interproximal support wires. There is excellent stability despite no active clasping. This appliance allows complete freedom for the arches to interface. Trimming acrylic away from the palatal surfaces around the necks of the posterior teeth can allow for natural settling of the occlusion without loss of retention. The labial bow can be pinched in at the embrasure between the first and second molars in the few instances when additional retention is needed. A slight squeeze with three-prong pliers to the cantilever arm can adjust the labial bow up or down to accommodate any sliding tendency on the incisors. For additional retention, acrylic can be added to the anterior section of the labial bow. Both the labial bow and cantilever arm are made from .036-inch stainless steel wire. Photo Compliments of Accutech Orthodontic Lab Inc.
Michael Florman, DDS
The Enamel Safe Bur
Michael Florman, DDS
Florman Orthodontics, Los Angeles
As all orthodontists know, removal of composite resin at debonding needs to be done carefully to prevent the excessive removal of enamel. The more enamel a tooth has, the better it reflects light, and ultimately the better it looks. As we get closer to the dentin, light reflects differently and teeth with thin enamel look less white. It is our responsibility as orthodontists to “do no harm.”
The new Enamel Safe™ Bur from Spee and Success Essentials delivers an abrasive that only removes composite resin—and not enamel. Unlike carbides or white stones that can cut and abrade enamel, the fiberglass material found in the Enamel Safe Bur wears away as the composite is removed, and is softer than the enamel. When it comes in contact with enamel it can’t remove it.
