Abstract: Elastomeric, orthodontic, tension-applying apparatus, and a method for molding the same to yield a device characterized by highly uniform eleasticity properties. In the final molded product, plural endless loops are interconnected, in a chain-like fashion, by integral tensioning structure, with each loop joined to the side of an elongated carrier prong through an individual isthmus. These isthmuses result, during the molding process, from individual flow-gating which is provided for each loop, and such gating is key to ultimate elasticity uniformity.

Abstract: A rigid grommet-like end-connector device for use with an end of one or more elastomeric, orthodontic, tension-applying chains of the kind having a string of plural, endless, stretchable loops. The device is primarily useful in intermaxillary-type orthodontic applications, where long-term uninterrupted usage is desired, and where it is important to provide a solid wear-resistant attaching structure for the ends of the force-applying elastomer unit. The proposed device significantly expands the utility of currently available orthodontic chains of the type generally mentioned, by permitting plural strands of these chains to be connected in parallel, so-to-speak, both to amplify force-transmission capabilities, and to enhance longevity of effective performance life.

Abstract: An orthodontic tooth-rotation-effecting wedge. The wedge is made of a mouth-fluid-resistant elastomeric material. It includes a relatively thin web having a pair of openings for releasably fitting over and encircling a pair of conventional bracket posts, and a bulge, or enlargement, joined to one side of the web. The bulge is for deflecting an arch wire from the path which, in the absence of installation of the wedge, it would normally tend to follow past a bracket. A pair of spaced mounds is formed on one side of the enlargement. These mounds are adapted to straddle an arch wire to prevent twisting of the wedge out of place.

Abstract: A patient-usable orthodontic device for carrying, dispensing and installing intraoral tension-applying devices of the type including a pair of spaced endless loops which are intended for catching onto spaced hooks secured to tooth bands or the like in a patient's mouth. The device includes a molded elastomer portion having a body, and a plurality of tension-applying devices severably joined to the body. Formed in the body is a projecting finger, the outer end of which carries a rigid catch designed to aid in the installation of a tension-applying device which has been severed from the body.

Abstract: Modular orthodontic bracket structure including a pair of releasably interengageable bracket members. One of these members, which forms an outer member, has a relatively high degree of elastic stiffness. This outer member includes ligating posts which define a socket for snap-receiving the other, or inner, member. The inner member has a lower degree of elastic stiffness, and includes a slot for receiving an arch wire. The slot is shaped to define the particular positional orientation of an arch wire received therein so as to effect the transmission of a prescribed force from the wire to the outer bracket member, and then to a tooth.