
The
Twin Block design
continues to improve.
Dr. Gerber has modified his Twin
Block design to improve stability
and neuromuscular treatment.
He has also extended the acrylic
and eliminated all sharp edges to
create a tighter fitting
appliance.Modifications from
the Basic Design
Several options are
also available with
this Twin Block appliance including the use of a sagittal
or expansions design in the upper
and/or lower arches.
The appliances can be
modified as the case requires and designs may be used in any combination. For example, upper and
lower expansion screws may be
used for lateral development, an
upper sagittal type appliance may
be used with a basic lower appliance, and a face bow, or reverse
headgear, may be incorporated in
the case design. In addition to
these options, a fixed/removable
Twin Block and full banded versions can be made using a Wilson
3D type of appliance or a full
banded style.
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Indications
- Class II correction (A-P)
- Vertical development--to open
- Vertical correction--to close
- Arch expansion
- Arch lengthening
How is the fit and retention?
Dr. Gerber always clasps the first
molars for increased
stabilization. He also
prefers around acrylic
edges for a more comfortable fit.
Adjustment for the Expansion
Screw
Lateral or arch length development
may be achieved by instructing the
patient to adjust the screws 1/4
turn each week. Expansion should
be completed before banded
block.
Laboratory Requirements
The laboratory requires upper and
lower stone models. A wax construction bite in a forward and
open position is also required,
usually 4 to 5 mm forward and 4 to
5 mm open in the bicuspid area.
Patient Participation
I require patients to chew stick
free gum for two hours a day in
order to close the bite with
continuous force. |
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Dr. Jay Gerber operates his full time practice in
St. Marys, West
Virginia. In 1980 he
opened his
Orthodontic Studies
program where you
will find
him lecturing
on orthodontic, TMJ
and neuro-
muscular
advancements
throughout the
United
States.
Dr. Gerber is an IAO
Senior Instructor and
was
recognized as the
"1990 clinician of the
year"
by the AAFO.

For non-compliant
patients, Dr. Gerber
prescribes his
"Banded Block" shown above.
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