Abstract: A crimpable orthodontic device is disclosed. The orthodontic device is adapted to be mounted on an orthodontic wire. The crimpable orthodontic device has a tubular member defining an opening for receiving the orthodontic wire. The tubular member has an inner surface for contacting the orthodontic wire. The inner surface has an etched surface area on at least a portion of the inner surface of the tubular member. The tubular member is crimpable such that upon crimping on the orthodontic wire the etched surface area on the portion of the inner surface of the tubular member engages the orthodontic wire to increase the friction between the member and the orthodontic wire.

Abstract: A torqued archwire for use in an edgewise orthodontic bracket system. The archwire is substantially rectangular in cross-section, is made of titanium-based alloy and has a plurality of segments, including an anterior segment which is sized to cooperate with brackets attached to a person's central and lateral teeth. Positive torque is built into this anterior segment, with substantially the same positive torque being used across the entire length of the segment. Extending from the respective ends of the anterior segment are a pair of transition segments, in which the torque built into the archwire is approximately zero. Posterior segments of the archwire, which extend distally from the transition segments, each have a negative built-in torque, with substantially the same negative torque being used across the entire lengths of these segments. For ease of reference by an orthodontist, the “active” anterior segment of the archwire is laser etched or colored with non-toxic ink.