The Equiplan-Quad Helix combination in deep-bite cases.

JCO/AUGUST 2002 T article presents a treatment method and fixed appliance designed to correct dental deep bite in patients of any age, or skeletal deep bite in growing patients. The appliance was developed by Dr. J.M.S. Pato in 1992 by attaching a Planas Equiplan1 to a Quad Helix* or a transpalatal bar (Fig. 1). The palatal expander is inserted into the lingual tubes of the first molar bands or welded directly to the molar bands. The Planas Equiplan is attached to the anterior arms with acrylic or directly to the anterior helices of the Quad Helix. Although the same bite-opening effect can be obtained by using an acrylic or metal biteplane, such as the Bite Turbo,** or with lingual appliances, we use the Equiplan because of our long experience in using it with Bimler functional appliances. The Equiplan-Quad Helix combination can expand the palate and open the bite at the same time by intruding the anterior teeth, extruding the posterior teeth, and unblocking the occlusal plane. Thus, it can help resolve TMJ problems