Inventors:
Daniel S. German - Dayton OH
International Classification:
A61C 300
Abstract:
An adjustable aligning reel for aligning a misaligned tooth into a predetermined position in an arch of teeth. The adjustable aligning reel comprises an adjustable tensioner which is capable of being mounted on an archwire in operative relationship with the misaligned tooth. The adjustable tensioner comprises a drive shaft having a filament attached thereto. An end of the filament is secured to a bracket which is mounted on the misaligned tooth and the drive shaft is rotated such that a predetermined tension is applied to the tooth. This tension causes the misaligned tooth to be moved towards the predetermined position. The drive shaft comprises a slip gear for preventing the tension applied to the filament from exceeding a preselected tension limit. The adjustable tensioner also includes a ratchet and pawl mechanism for preventing the drive shaft from rotating in a manner that causes the filament to unwind. A keyhole is provided at one end of the drive shaft to facilitate using a tool to rotate the drive shaft and tighten the filament.