ABSTRACT
The segmented TMA T-loop spring, used for reciprocal space closure and described by Burstone, was used to achievebodily movement of canine. Photoelastic analysis is a technique for the transformation of internal stress into visible light patterns. The two-dimensional photoelastic stress analysis was performed, and stress distribution was recorded by photography. The purpose of this study was to visualize photoelastically the distribution of forces transmitted to the alveolus and surrounding structures using new segmented TMA T-loop spring for canine retraction. The results were as follows: 1. Decreased activation produced decreased stress of upper 1st. premolar extraction site and increased intrusive stress of upper 1st. molar, regardless of T-loop position. 2. At 5mm activation, More posterior positioning of T-loop produced an increased stress in upper 1st. premolar extraction site. 3. At 3mm activation, More posterior positioning of T-loop produced an increased stress in upper 1st. premolar extraction site and mesial lower half of upper 1st. molar mesio-buccal root. 4. At 1mm activation, More anterior positioning of T-loop produced an increased stress in upper mesial and blew apex area of upper canine root. 5. 0.25 B/L ratio and 3mm activation produced bodily movement of canine. To summarize, desired tooth movement and anchorage requirement is possible by altering the activation and mesio-distal position of the T-loop spring.