An orthodontic distalizing apparatus comprises at least one force generating
element
positioned intermediate a force dissipating element secured to the hard palate
and/or alveolar ridge and a first tooth (e.g., a molar) that is being distalized.
The at least one force generating element is positioned to apply a distalizing
force on the molar in a direction substantially along a longitudinal axis of the
dental arch and at a low level of the basal gingiva. The at least one force generating
element may be configured to prevent inadvertent disassembly thereof during installation,
adjustment and/or conversion of the apparatus between an active and a passive state.
In addition, the at least one force generating element may be configured to be
reversibly convertible between an active state and a passive state without requiring
removal of the device from the patient's mouth. Moreover, the at least one force
generating element may be configured to provide a continuous activation force of
substantially constant magnitude during distalization of the molar. The apparatus
may also be constructed so that the force dissipating element is connected to at
least one anchoring tooth by a slidable coupling that absorbs all reaction forces
transmitted substantially along a direction of the longitudinal arch. A second
force dissipating element may be positioned intermediate the force dissipating
element and a second tooth (e.g., a bicuspid) to facilitate the closing of any
gaps that are created following distalization of the molar. A method of converting
an orthodontic distalizing apparatus between an active and a passive state is also provided.
