Dental Expanders, Fixed Appliances

W-Arch

The W Arch, also known as the Porter appliance, is fabricated from .036 wire and designed for adjustable anterior and posterior expansion. This appliance is activated by opening the apices, allowing for easy adjustments to provide the desired expansion. Before insertion, it should be manually opened 3-4 mm to ensure the application of proper forces. Expansion is recommended at a rate of 2 mm per month until the crossbite is overcorrected, ensuring optimal alignment and arch development.

Additional Options, Materials & Treatment Information

Additional Options

AO Maximum Retention Bands
Leone Web Bands
AO .022 Slot w/ Hook
AO Headgear and .022 Slot with Hook
AO MBT w/hook
AO Double Slot w/ Hook

Materials

Wire: American Orthodontics Chromium Cobalt

Treatment & Care

There are two ways to activate the W arch before placing it in the mouth. Ricketts et al. (1979) originally suggested that operators activate the appliance with three-pronged pliers to incorporate expansion and molar-rotating force. Another method proposed by Kholoki (1995) employs an arch form chosen from a pentamorphic chart that serves as a pattern for regulating the W Arch.

This appliance should be cleaned every day with toothpaste and a soft toothbrush, morning and night. Encourage the patient to give sufficient time to clean thoroughly around the appliance, gums, teeth, and bands to maintain proper hygiene and prevent inflammation. 3 minutes is recommended.

More About W-Arch

Also Known As:

W-arch expander, Transverse arch expander

Who Made Me:

Robert Ricketts invented the W arch appliance in 1975. The W arch is a fixed, horseshoe-shaped device that’s attached to the molar bands on both sides of the mouth. It’s used to expand the upper and lower teeth, and is often recommended for modest growth in the maxilla and mandible.

Here are some other orthodontic appliances and their inventors:
Quad-Helix: A modification of the W arch, the Quad-Helix was developed by Robert Murray Ricketts in 1975. It adds four loops to the W arch to increase flexibility and control molar rotations.

The Dental is in the Details

We’re driven by hard-work and a relentless passion for dental excellence. It’s simple. ODL’s highly skilled lab technicians utilize the finest materials available to achieve ideal results for you and your patients. We stand by our craftsmanship and strive to exceed your expectations with every appliance.

Revolutionize the way you serve your patients with the W-Arch

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W-Arch