The interaction between reaction forces and stabilization systems during intrusion of the anterior teeth and its effect on the posterior unit.

The aim of this research is to attain a better understanding of the initial reaction forces induced by an intrusion mechanism (acting on the anterior teeth) on the posterior unit and to examine how these forces can be neutralized. The experiments were performed on the dentition of a dry human skull and initial tooth displacements were registered by means of two laser measuring techniques, namely holographic interferometry and the laser reflection technique. It was established that of all reaction forces induced by the intrusion arch, distal tipping of the first molars is the most pronounced. A transpalatal bar connecting the teeth does not counteract this movement. The stabilization of the posterior unit with a transpalatal bar, buccal sectionals, and high-pull headgear proved to be the most effective technique.