C-Rings for Reactivation of Open-Coil Springs

Open-coil springs usually require reactivation to gain sufficient arch space. Previously published methods for reactivation have included placing crimpable stops or sections of split tubing on the archwire,^1,2 pre-positioning additional wire segments between neighboring teeth,³ and spreading apart the coils of the spring.³ We have devised a simple and efficient method for chairside reactivation of an open-coil spring using segments of orthodontic wire.

Technique

1. Bend the end of a segment of .017" × .025" stainless steel wire flatwise around the round beak of a universal plier, forming a "C" shape (A).

2. Cut the C-shaped section from the end of the wire (B) and grasp it with a Weingart plier or a straight How plier, so that the opening faces toward the archwire.

3. After protecting the patient's airway with a piece of gauze, expose the archwire by pushing the open-coil spring to one side with a ligature tucker. Place the C-ring over the archwire and crimp it slightly to secure it (C).

Discussion

As with previously published techniques, the C-ring does not require archwire removal and thus reduces chairtime. An added benefit is that because rectangular stainless steel wire is readily available in any practice, C-rings can be quickly prepared during or prior to a patient visit. 

Another application of the C-ring is to reactivate a Forsus FRD^* appliance or to activate the Forsus asymmetrically for midline correction. One or more C-rings can be crimped onto the push rod distal to the stopper while compressing the spring as needed (D).