The Straight-Wire Appliance

Qualities of the Straight-Wire Appliance are summarized, and its background and clinical use reviewed. A need for objectively established treatment goals impelled a study of naturally excellent occlusions. Consistent characteristics were identified. Their apparent suitability for most patients indicated the feasibility of a new appliance, preprogrammed to take patients to such goals with reduced wirebending, shorter treatment time and chair time, and greater consistency and exactness in end results. A bracket-siting method is recommended; terminology is defined; appliance design features and extraction bracket options are described. Discussion includes advantages of the SWA, misconceptions and a comparison with other appliances.