Ortho Creations - Home of the T-Bow

The T-Bow

The T-bow allows the operator to make pre-measured and standardized U-loops for maxillary or mandibular orthodontic appliances. The T-bow combines the conventional round wire turret concept with end plugs that will produce uniform labial bows for orthodontic retainers. Below are the steps (click on images for larger view) taken to form these U-loops using the T-Bow:

		Step 1: Measure the model from distal canine embrasure to distal canine embrasure. Record the measurement. (55mm)

		Step 2: Visually divide the wire into thirds and place the 139 bird beak plier at the approximate one third length.

		Step 3: Make a right angle bend.

		Step 4: Place the bend against the smallest yellow plug and rotate the tag around the larger plug to form the first U-loop.

		Step 5: Subtract 5 mm. (55mm-5mm=50mm) (For Mandibular, subtract 4mm)

		Step 6: Place the wire in the groove against the T-bow and mark the wire at 50 mm.

		Step 7: Make a right angle bend.

		Step 8: Repeat step 3 to form the second U-loop.

		Step 9: Using the circumferential grooves, form a smooth curve to fit the arch.*

		Step 10: Continue to adapt the tags to the model in the traditional manner.

Use the red end plug on mandibular model for proportionally smaller U-loops. Follow the directions above but subtract 4 mm for the mandibular retainer loop.

*Adapt the arch form using the circumferential round grooves at any time during the process. The smooth arch form may be created before, after or during the forming of the labial bow.

Author:
Leigh A. Tiebout, CDT, M.S.Ed
Assistant Professor
School of Allied Health
College of Applied Sciences & Arts
1365 Douglas Drive MC6615
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL. 62901
PH: 618-457-2414
lmanduze@verizon.net