Abstract: A breakaway device for orthodontic traction appliances comprising a case having a spring clasp therein for releasably clasping a coupling member, the coupling member separating from the clasp when subjected to pull exceeding a predetermined value, with an adjustment for the clasp to adjust its grip on the coupling member for adjusting the breakaway pull.

Abstract: A breakaway orthodontic traction appliance which applies traction to the teeth via tension devices comprising straps inserted in clasps having grippers for gripping the straps, the grippers opening up for pull-out of the straps from the clasps on pull on the straps exceeding a predetermined value.

Abstract: Strapping comprising first and second straps each having inner and outer faces, the straps being adapted to be placed in lapped face-to-face relation with the inner face of one strap engaging the outer face of the other strap. Fabric fastening material is provided on the engaging faces of the straps comprising a multiplicity of fastening elements projecting from one strap and a plush-like surface on the other interengageable with the fastening elements for securing the straps together. A loop on one of the straps at the lapped portion thereof releasably holds the straps together in face-to-face relation to maintain the fastening elements in interengagement with the plush-like surface. The fastening elements and plush-like surface are adapted to be separated for enabling relative longitudinal movement of the straps by inserting an elongate blade between the lapped portions of the straps.

Abstract: Orthodontic traction apparatus adapted for attachment, via elastic bands or the like, to an orthodontic instrumentality associated with the teeth for applying traction to the teeth generally in the forward direction with respect to the head. The apparatus comprises headgear adapted to be worn on the head, and a relatively rigid chin cup adapted for connection to the headgear. An implement in the form of a wire arm extends up from the chin cup for attachment at its upper end, via the elastic bands, to the orthodontic instrumentality. The arm is mounted on the chin cup for movement in the direction of its longitudinal axis for adjustment of the position of the upper end of the arm relative to the mouth and for movement relative to the chin cup generally in side-to-side direction with respect to the head.

Abstract: Neck pad material in the form of tape adapted to be cut to selected lengths for use with orthodontic appliances or the like, comprising at least three strips of heat-sealable material seamed together at their sides for forming pad material, with an intermediate strip being of heavier loft than the outer strips for providing a cushioning effect. The pad material has areas of heat seal extending transversely thereof from one edge of the pad material to the other with the areas being spaced at intervals lengthwise of the pad. The pad material is adapted to be cut to form pads of selected length by cutting transversely of the pad material through these areas. A method of making such material is also described.

Abstract: Orthodontic apparatus for applying traction to the teeth in a patient's mouth via an orthodontic instrumentality on the teeth, comprising headgear having a pair of side members to be worn on opposite sides of the patient's head. Each side member has a tensioning assembly associated therewith for applying traction to the teeth. Each tensioning assembly develops traction upon being stretched. The forward end of each tensioning assembly is adapted to be attached to the orthodontic instrumentality and the rearward end has a fastening rod adapted to be mounted on a side member by a coupler. The coupler has an unlocked and locked configuration. When unlocked, the fastening rod can slide in the coupler relative to the side member so that a predetermined magnitude of traction force may be developed. When locked, the fastening rod is secured against sliding movement so that the traction force may be maintained.

Abstract: Strapping for orthodontic headgear, wrist watch straps, identificaton straps for hospital use and other uses, comprising a core constituted by a strip of substantially nonstretchable polyester film and a wrapper constituted by a composite strip comprising a layer of polyurethane film and a layer of nonwoven polyester fabric which layers have been bonded together under heat and pressure, the composite strip being wrapped around the side edges of the core with the layer of film on the outside and having its marginal edges overlapped and fused together to form a longitudinal overlap seam by a series of discrete fused stitches, and a method of making the same involving ultrasonic stitching.

Abstract: Orthodontic traction apparatus for applying traction to the teeth of a patient comprising headgear to be worn by the patient including a pair of side members adapted to be positioned on opposite sides of the patient's head adjacent the ears, and a tensioning assembly on each side member for attachment to an instrumentality associated with the teeth for applying traction thereto. Each tensioning assembly comprises a rod mounted in a guide for sliding movement of the rod axially therein. The guide, in turn, is mounted on the respective side member for axial adjustment relative thereto and also for angular adjustment relative to the side member about an axis extending generally in side-to-side direction with respect to the patient's head. A spring biases the rod to slide axially in the guide to apply traction to the teeth.