Auxiliaries

Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) are titanium self-drilling mini-screws (1.4–1.6 mm diameter, 6–10 mm length) placed in alveolar bone between roots or in the palate to provide absolute skeletal anchorage — tooth movement without any reciprocal movement of the anchor unit. TADs are indicated when conventional tooth anchorage cannot achieve the desired movement without unacceptable side-effects (molar mesialisation during retraction, posterior arch expansion during vertical closure). Common indications in Egyptian practice: class II malocclusion requiring maximum anterior retraction without molar advancement; anterior open bite requiring molar intrusion; vertical dimension control in high-angle cases.

Bite turbos (bite stops) bonded to the palatal surface of maxillary incisors or the occlusal surface of lower premolars force the patient to bite on the turbo rather than on the posterior teeth, disengaging posterior occlusion and allowing posterior teeth to erupt while restraining anterior teeth. This creates simultaneous posterior extrusion and potential anterior intrusion that reduces deep bite. In Egyptian patients with class II deep bites (high prevalence in Egyptian orthodontic caseload), bite turbos enable posterior bracket bonding without the deep bite preventing proper bracket access on lower anteriors and allow immediate archwire placement without lower incisor occlusal interference on upper brackets.

Open coil springs (placed between two bracket slots on the archwire) generate a pushing force that separates adjacent teeth — used to open space in the arch for crowded teeth, impacted canines, or when insufficient space exists for bracket placement. Closed coil springs (attached from hook to hook) generate a pulling force that approximates teeth — used for space closure in extraction cases, mesialisation of posterior teeth, or loop mechanics. Select spring force module (e.g. 100 g or 150 g for Matt springs) based on the required biological force for the rate of movement needed without causing root resorption in Egyptian patients with thin alveolar bone.

Position the crimpable ball hook on the archwire in the space between the desired bracket and the adjacent bracket, with the hook opening facing occlusally for elastic engagement. Crimp the hook firmly onto the archwire using a crimping plier (not a ligature director, which lacks adequate grip force) by squeezing both wings of the hook closed around the wire diameter. Confirm the hook is locked without sliding along the wire by attempting to reposition it manually; a properly crimped hook should not move under hand pressure. Inspect at every adjustment appointment as hooks can loosen over time with repeated elastic force cycling.

Yes — MedSTA supplies T.Fit mini screws (555 EGP each), Aditek Bite Turbo Mini Mold Kits (990 EGP/4 pcs), Matt closed coil springs (85 EGP each), and Aditek crimpable ball hooks (50 EGP) in EGP with same-day dispatch from Cairo. Cairo and Giza delivery within 1–3 business days; all other Egyptian governorates within 3–5 business days.