Abstract

A combination single/twin edgewise orthodontic bracket incorporating twin tie wings to promote twin ligating capability and over-rotation capability, and also incorporating an intermediate section of single bracket width that defines a precision archwire slot for receiving an edgewise archwire of rectangular cross sectional configuration to promote orthodontic treatment with the edgewise orthodontic technique. Relief grooves between the upper and lower tie wings extend outwardly from the ends of the precision archwire slot and are relieved in both width and depth as they traverse each tie wing mesially and distally to provide for efficient over-rotation control. The relief grooves cooperate with the central bracket section to permit the fullest expression of the advantages of interbracket width. The single/twin tying, bracket features may be employed in a wide variety of bracket structures including "T" brackets, which accommodate loops more conveniently while preserving the advantages promoted by spaced ligating tie wings. Transverse ligature slots formed in the proximal edges or ends of the bracket permit application of efficient force vectors to the edgewise archwire even when the archwire slot is severely angulated to maintain optimum seating of the archwire within its slot.