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Executive | Lab Tech Talk

Lingual Arch

Category:

Appliance Purpose / Function:

The primary function of the Hawley Retainer with soldered “C” clasps is to provide retention of the anterior teeth. Retention is provided by a labial 3 x 3 labial bow.

Appliance Components:

  • Acrylic Arch
  • Labial bow with adjustment loops anchored in the acrylic arch
  • Soldered circumferential clasps on 1st bicuspids

Suggested Materials:

  • Wire: Chromium Cobalt wire or Stainless-Steel wire
  • Solder: Silver Solder (Cadmium Free)

Options:

  • Laser welded (removes the solder)
  • May be fabricated with facial acrylic

Appliance Fabrication Standards:

  • Labial bow is formed from 3 x 3
  • The adjustment loops begin just distal to the mid point on the facial of the cuspid
  • The loop ends at the interproximal of the cuspid and the 1st bicuspid
  • The wire is in intimate contact with the teeth in the interproximal area as it crosses the occlusion
  • The “C” clasp is formed to sit below the height of contour on the 1st bicuspid
  • The “C” clasp is maintains intimate contact with the tooth on the buccal surface of the 1st bicuspid
  • The palatal wires are formed about 1mm off the tissue to provide clearance for acrylic