Patent ID: 6877982
Filing Date: 2005-04-12
Classification: A61C

Abstract:
1. An orthodontic appliance for expanding the mandibular or maxillary arch comprising: a first forward orthodontic band; a second forward orthodontic band; a first spring-loaded rod and tube assembly between said first and second forward orthodontic bands; a first rear orthodontic band and a second rear orthodontic band; a second spring-loaded rod and tube assembly connecting said first forward and first rear orthodontic bands; and a third spring-loaded rod and tube assembly connecting said second forward and second rear orthodontic bands; said rod and tube assemblies each having a first tube that slidably receives a rod, a second tube coaxial with the rod that receives said first tube, and a spring coaxial and within said second tube; said rods and said first tubes having complementary cross-sectional shapes to avoid relative rotation.