A section of .036-inch wire is contoured to the lingual surfaces of the teeth and soldered to bands on the first molars. Spurs may be soldered distal of the laterals to prevent loss of space in the arch while waiting for eruption of posterior teeth. Specialty's standard design has adjustment loops mesial to the first molars, but they can also be used in the bicuspid area for activation.

A stabilizing wire traverses the palate, extending forward to the first bicuspid area. The wire is soldered to bands on the first molars with an acrylic button processed over the wire in front of the palatal vault. This provides stabilization to the arch and prevents mesial movement of molars during transition.

The basic Transpalatal Arch is made using a .036-inch wire with a center loop. It is soldered to the molar bands as shown. The palatal wire must be relieved from the tissue for patient comfort. A fixed transpalatal can be inserted as a passive appliance, or slight adjustments may be made to widen and/or rotate the molars.

The Vertical Habit appliance is used on the upper arch to restrain the tongue from excessive anterior movement or thumb sucking. A .040-inch support arch wire is soldered to bands on the first molars. A vertical "cage" is extended just behind the lower anteriors to prevent thumb sucking and tongue thrusting. [ View More Info ]

The Habit with an added Pearl is used on the upper arch to restrain the tongue from excessive anterior movement. A .040-inch support arch wire is soldered to bands on the first molars. A vertical cage is extended just behind the lower anteriors to prevent the patient from tongue thrust. A Pearl is added in the vault of the palate to retrain the tongue.

A wire loop is typically soldered to a first molar band with the front section abutting a deciduous molar. The appliance will prevent movement of both teeth and maintain space for the unerupted tooth. Space Maintainers are made for the upper or lower arch.