Passive Self Ligation - Balancing the Evidence

  • Dr Tom Pitts, ORMCO Pty Ltd, United States

Modern research has confirmed that with contemporary orthodontic mechanical systems a bracket must be considered as more than a "handle on a tooth". Research shows that Passive Self-ligation requires less force to overcome resistance to sliding of the teeth with sliding mechanics, and that this characteristic facilitates the expression of the Copper NiTi archwires.

These facts substantiate contemporary treatment PSL protocols where "wanted" forces and moments can be utilized to maximal clinical benefit and "unwanted" forces and moments can be reduced or mitigated.

Dr. Pitts will show examples of how the research predictions are accurately reflected in clinical practice and how the positive attributes of Passive SL can produce awesome function and esthetics in everyday practice.