<p><strong>SOLUTION:</strong>&nbsp;Most doctors recommend a #139 Bird Beak plier for most finger spring adjustments. Double helical finger springs are also recommended on the appliance to provide greater strength, full adjustment range, flexibility and control. The spring is activated by inserting the sharpened round end of the # 139 plier into the spring helical closet to the tooth to be rotated. The plier is rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise, depending on the direction of tooth rotation desired.</p>

<p>Example: When rotating the mesial of a right central to the labial, the appliance is constructed with the open end of the spring positioned to the mesial. The # 139 plier is inserted in the helical closet to the tooth and serve as a fulcrum for rotation. Acrylic covering the spring protects it from biting forces and controls the direction of force.</p>

<p>The spring is activated with a variance of 1 to 1 &frac12; mm between the active and passive positions to provide pressure of approximately two ounces which is usually adequate and tolerable. A series of light pressure adjustments over an extended period of pressure is more effective than a few heavy force adjustments.</p>

<p>The patient will become accustomed to the appliance if it is placed without pressure for the first week. After the initial activation of the finger springs, slight discomfort and displacement can be expected for approximately one week. The appliance should then seat comfortably.</p>

<p>After active treatment, a retainer is usually worn for at least nine months and is reinserted monthly thereafter as a &ldquo;check guide&rdquo;&nbsp;<br />
against relapse.&nbsp;</p>
