Intrusion and retraction with an innovative crane spring

Today, one of the most common lines of treatment for gummy smiles is the use of temporary anchorage devices (TADs). One of the major issues with the TADs is the unpredictability of stability during treatment. Additional to the loosening of TAD, gingival tissue overgrowth, especially when placed above the attached gingiva, is a persistent issue. During the process of intrusion and retraction, the point of force attachment in relation to the center of resistance is of prime importance to achieve the correct and required vector of force. This, at most times, is not achievable with TADs due to the interference of the roots of teeth. Thus, an alternative to TADs with the convenience of placing the point of force attachment anywhere in the buccal vestibule is discussed here in. This article describes the design and action of an innovative spring (Crane spring) wherein the point of force attachment can be varied to suit the biomechanics apart from delivering light and continuous forces using looped mechanics. The spring is of a simple design and can be easily constructed. It is highly efficient with intrusion and retraction.