Abstract: The present invention accordingly provides for an orthodontic bracket having a plurality of tiewings and a plurality of posts extending in the mesial/distal direction. The plurality of tiewings may be located on the occlusal side of the orthodontic bracket, and may include a center post between the tiewings, for placement reference and ligation of the orthodontic bracket. A hook may be provided on the gingival side of the orthodontic bracket for anchorage and ligating of the orthodontic bracket, and the tiewings may be provided on the occlusal and gingival side of the orthodontic bracket. The posts may be provided on the gingival side, or on the occlusal and gingival sides of the orthodontic bracket, to assist in bracket placement and to direct a ligature over or under an archwire occupying the archwire slot during treatment, as desired.

Abstract: The orthodontic appliance is metal injection molded as a unitary bracket, and is a made of a Stellite cobalt chromium alloy composition formulated to be substantially nickel-free, containing less than 1% nickel, in order to alleviate nickel allergic reactions experienced by a small fraction of the population to nickel. While nickel improved hardness of the bracket, the elements of chromium and molybdenum in the proposed alloy for the bracket also contribute to hardness of the alloy. The orthodontic bracket comprises a unitary metal injection molded body including a bonding base adapted to adhere to a tooth surface, and an archwire slot adapted for receiving an archwire. The preferred composition consists essentially of 59-69% by weight cobalt, 26-30% by weight chromium, 4-8% by weight molybdenum, and 2% or less by weight trace elements. The bonding base has a bottom base pattern in the form of a plurality of rectangular or square pockets that are approximately 0.005 to 0.015 inch in size.

Abstract: The orthodontic appliance is metal injection molded as a unitary bracket, and is a made of a Stellite cobalt chromium alloy composition formulated to be substantially nickel-free, containing less than 1% nickel, in order to alleviate nickel allergic reactions experienced by a small fraction of the population to nickel. While nickel improved hardness of the bracket, the elements of chromium and molybdenum in the proposed alloy for the bracket also contribute to hardness of the alloy. The orthodontic bracket comprises a unitary metal injection molded body including a bonding base adapted to adhere to a tooth surface, and an archwire slot adapted for receiving an archwire. The preferred composition consists essentially of 59-69% by weight cobalt, 26-30% by weight chromium, 4-8% by weight molybdenum, and 2% or less by weight trace elements. The bonding base has a bottom base pattern in the form of a plurality of rectangular or square pockets that are approximately 0.005 to 0.015 inch in size.

Abstract: A palatal arch expander assembly provides low, constant expansion forces to the palatal arch and provides individual corrective forces to either the first or second molars. A shape memory or superelastic archwire can be cooled below its transition temperature so that it is easily bendable for insertion into the mouth. After insertion, the archwire warms to a temperature above its transition temperature and provides low, continual expansion forces throughout the treatment period without requiring further adjustment. A pair of adjustment wires are bendable and provide individual corrective forces to either the first or second molars. The adjustment wires can be readjusted at any point during the treatment period. The archwire can be formed from a nickel-titanium alloy wire or superelastic material and the adjustment wires can be formed from nicoloy, stainless steel, or similar metal wire.