Abstract: Disclosed is an orthodontic retraction system that couples to vertical bracket slots, and that is compatible with continuous arches. In one aspect of the invention, a retraction spring that is formed of a high-strength elongate member of uniform cross-section has a stem at one end of the spring for engaging the vertical slot of a first tooth bracket, the stem being bendable for anchoring to the first tooth bracket; a shank extending from the other end of the spring for engaging a horizontally oriented auxiliary passage in a second tooth bracket, the shank also being bendable for anchoring to the second tooth bracket; and a T-shaped loop formed between the stem and the shank for biasingly connecting the tooth brackets. The disclosed system includes the spring and includes a plurality of the tooth brackets for rigid connection to corresponding teeth of a patient, each of the brackets having associated means for anchoring the continuous arch wire.