Tip-edge technique
1.Introduction
Developed by Kesling in 1988, also called “Begg revisited” or “differential straight arch technique”, the Tip-Edge technique draws its specificity on the one hand from the original shape of its bracket and, on the other hand, from the biomechanical principles borrowed from the Begg technique associated with the advantages of the Edgewise technique.
In this sense, it can be said that it is an evolved form of Begg’s technique . However, due to its original attachment, the Tip-Edge can be considered a straight bow technique.
2.history
Begg abandoned the Edgewise technique in favour of freedom of movement through Ribbon-arch brackets, which later caused him finishing problems.
The advent of SWA in the 1980s limited the diffusion of both techniques.
But SWA has some limitations.
- In the realization of the translational movement (“bodily mvt), mainly Friction;
- Torque control is primitive;
- Causes unwanted reciprocal torque of adjacent teeth.
In 1986 Kesling modified the shape of the bracket to correct these problems.
Teeth move easily and quickly in response to very light forces if the artificial constraints generated by the Edgewise grooves are removed.
The innovation lies in the removal of 2 opposite corners 🡪the version is controlled and limited.
3. Philosophy of Tip-edge technique
- Original bracket shape;
- Biomechanical principles from the Begg Technique.
- Differentiated dental movements performed with light (physiological) forces
1st time : Crown version (without resistors)
Friction removed.
2nd step : parallel roots
4. Description of the Tip-edge device:
4.1. Passive elements:
4.1.1. Tip-edge orthodontic brackets
In 1988, Kesling, seeking to improve the finish of treatments carried out using the Begg technique, had the idea of developing a new attachment resulting from chamfering the edgewise attachment.
The attachment includes:
- A version surface
- Mortise knife
- A straightening surface
Tip-edge technique
Tip-edge technique
The bracket also features a vertical corridor for:
- Insertion of auxiliaries
- Gauge inserted in this corridor
There are 3 characteristics of the Tip-Edge throat
- Frictionless movement;
- Control of the mesio-distal version of the teeth;
- Dynamic throat:
- The throat’s ability to “increase” its size
- Variable anchoring potential.
The various thicknesses of the base of the attachment vary from 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm.
4.1.2. Molar tubes:
It is a double vestibular tube,
- One of round section with an internal diameter of 0.36 inch (0.9 mm) on the gingival side
- The other one closer to the occlusal edge, with a rectangular section of 0.22 x 0.28 inch
We can associate:
- Lingual sheaths.
- FEB tubes.
Tip-edge technique
4.2. Dynamic elements:
- Arcs:
- Alignment arc:
- Round niti (.012 .014 .016 inch).
- In some cases: .017*.025 inch.
- Basic arc:
- Australian Steel Round Wire .016 inch.
- 02 loops between lateral-canine: “intra/intermax”
- 02 anchoring curves.
- Finishing arc :
- rectangular arc .019*.025 inch,
- “ full size e” .022*.028 inch
- steel / TMA
- Elastics
- Intramaxillary elastics.
- Intermaxillary elastics
- Sagittal shift.
- Occlusal unlocking.
- Auxiliary springs:
- Root straightening springs;
- Rotation springs;
- Anchor springs;
- Hooks: Power Pins.
5. Advantages of the Tip-edge technique:
- Use of light forces to produce the necessary tooth movements :
- Patient comfort;
- Reduced processing time due to the absence of friction;
- Simplified mechanics.
- Correction of most malocclusions simultaneously from the start of treatment;
- Torque and straightening ability without deflecting the arc (vertical direction control)
- Ensures good case finishing.
6. Conclusion
During the 1970s, Begg’s technique could be likened to an “extractionist” technique. The Tip-Edge technique, which is derived from it, should not suffer from such a reputation.
On the contrary, thanks to its original attachment and the reduction of biomechanical constraints , it allows to correct a greater number of malocclusions without resorting to extractions of definitive premolars. This is why it is fair to classify the Tip-Edge technique among the best current orthodontic techniques.