[Clinical experiences with the torque-segmented arch (TSA)].

Abstract

The torque segmented archwire presented here led to a good torque transfer in all patients, however this transfer differed on a case by case basis. With regard to the angle 1-NA, the average monthly torque change was 2.34 degrees. The smallest torque transfer was 1 degree; the biggest 5.5 degrees per month. Because the torque segmented arch wires consist of a pseudoelastic material for the anterior teeth and a steel portion for the lateral teeth, the anterior component can be adapted to the patient's individual situation and in addition the lateral components make possible the bending of first, second and third order bends. The dimensions of the superelastic materials are 0.016 x 0.022, 0.017 x 0.025, and 0.018 x 0.025. In all 3 dimensions it is possible to select a torque of 30 degrees or 45 degrees. The use of such arch wires yields the following advantages: 1. Problem-free adaptation to the patient's individual situation. 2. Torque segmented arch wires can be applied in the case of the standard edgewise technique as well as in each case of the straight wire technique. 3. The practitioner is no longer dependent on the torque loss of the archwire and the individual axial position of the incisors. 4. With the help of the torque key it is possible at any time to control the already transferred torque with regard to the occlusal plane. 5. The torque segmented archwire can also be applied in the segmented archwire technique. 6. The torque segmented archwire with right angular or round lateral components is well suited for the retraction of the anterior area.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)