Magnets in Orthodontics: An Overview.

Magnetic force is an essential ingredient of nature. The electron and the atom are the smallest magnets. The magnetic moment of the atom is caused by its own spin or by orbital motion of its electrons. Magnets have been used in the dentistry for many years, most commonly to aid in the retention of dentures and over dentures as well as obturators. In orthodontics, they have been used for treatment of unerupted teeth, for tooth movement along arch wire, for expansion, fixed retention, in correction of anterior open bite and in functional appliances.