(This article is freely available. Click here to download a PDF.)Mesial rotation of the mandibular canines is commonly encountered during treatment with the Forsus FRD, due to the constant force
exerted by the push rods. This force can also cause canine bracket failure or breakage of the elastomeric ligature as it is pinched between the push rod and the bracket. A damaged or broken elastomeric ligature can result in proclination of the lower anterior segment if it is not replaced immediately.
To overcome these problems, we engage standard rotation wedges (A) on the distal tie wings of the lower canine brackets prior to placement of the archwire and Forsus modules (B). Only the mesial tie wings are ligated to the archwire.
The rotation wedges prevent direct contact of the push rods with the canine brackets and elastomeric ligatures. Their shock-absorber effect helps avoid undesired tooth movement or bracket debonding and also assists somewhat in activation of the appliance. This modification has proven so beneficial that it is routinely employed for all Forsus cases in our practice.
This modification has proven so beneficial that it is routinely employed for all Forsus cases in our practice.