A Comparison of Adams Clasp Adjustment Using Novel Technique and Conventional Technique

Background and aim: Adjusting the retention of orthodontic appliances and the patient’s comfort are important factors for the efficacy of orthodontic treatment using removable appliances. The aim of the present study was to introduce a new technique for adjusting Adams clasp, which is the most important component involved in the retention of removable appliances, to provide greater retention and patient comfort. Materials and methods: The subjects in the present study consisted of ۴۵ patients referring to the Department of Orthodontics. Four removable maxillary plates were fabricated for each patient. One plate was adjusted from the area of both Adams clasps at overhead areas in the conventional technique. In the three remaining plates, the Adams clasp was bent in the middle area of the bridge under three vertical angles of ۸, ۱۵ and ۲۰ degrees. The plates were placed in each patient’s mouth and the retention, overbite change and patient pain scores were determined. Results: The adjustment under a vertical bend of ۱۵° in the middle area of the bridge resulted in maximum retention, followed by ۸°, ۲۰° and zero degree (the conventional technique). There were no significantly differences in the mean overbite change values between the four study groups. In addition, mean pain scores did not exhibit significant differences between the four study groups. Conclusion: By creating a bend of ۱۵° in the vertical direction in the bridge area of Adams clasp, the tip of the overheads moved ۲ mm toward each other based on trigonometry principles, resulting in maximum retention without increasing patient discomfort.