The mechanics of arch development with the Crozat appliance for adults and early expansion in young children is described. The fascinating history of the Crozat, beginning with Dr. Crozat himself, is traced; the contributions of Dr. Albert Wiebrecht led to the concept of functional arch development in the adult dentition.
The book covers applications in a general practice, diagnosis and rationale for arch development, components and construction of the Crozat appliance, delivery, mechanics and activation, variations and additions to the basic appliance and examples of early expansion in the child and arch development in the adult dentition.
There is a place in the general and specialty practice for Crozat arch development in the permanent dentition, particularly in the fields of cosmetic dentistry and the new Invisalign technology, as well as early expansion in the young child. It is unquestionably the most comfortable, hygienic and inconspicuous of all removable orthodontic appliances. The public appreciates the esthetics of a full smile, and an initial phase of Crozat therapy reduces time in fixed appliances, which adults appreciate.
Crozat practitioners have long realized the potential of arch development for helping the patient with facial and temporomandibular pain, and new research in the field of cranial osteopathy has provided the insight for understanding the mechanism for this.
Young children tolerate Crozats easily, so a phase one treatment including expansion fits easily into a general practice for the dentist who takes the time and effort to learn the Crozat technique and orthodontic diagnosis.