Patent ID: 8282392
Filing Date: 2012-10-09
Classification: A61C

Abstract:
1. A self-ligating orthodontic bracket assembly comprising: a bracket having: (a) an archwire slot extending mesio-distally across the bracket for receiving an archwire; (b) a channel extending through the bracket in an occlusal-gingival direction; and (c) a labial surface; a clip having: (a) a back forming the lingual aspect of the clip, sliding within the channel of the bracket between an open position and a closed position for the clip; (b) a labial portion; (c) a tongue extending from the labial portion of the clip across the archwire slot when the clip is in the closed position, and being retracted from the archwire slot when the clip is in the open position; and (d) a slot through the labial portion of the clip; and a rotatable lifting element having a head adjustably lifting the labial portion of the clip from the labial surface of the bracket, thereby adjusting the force exerted by the tongue of the clip on an archwire in the archwire slot; wherein the slot through the labial portion of the clip provides access to the head of the lifting element, and has a length selected to limit the range of travel of the clip between the open and closed positions.