Translucent Arch Wire

Orthodontic patients are often subjected to embarrassment brought about by the unsightly nature of metal braces. To alleviate consumers' aesthetic concerns during orthodontic treatment, the industry introduced translucent brackets twenty years ago. However, translucent arch wires remained unavailable until BioMers applied its fabrication technology to this application. No company has ever been able to develop a workable translucent arch wire because of technological limitations with alternate fabrication technologies.

The BioMers arch wires are translucent and, therefore, nearly invisible. As they function in the same way as metal wires, orthodontists do not have to undergo special training to use them. These wires have the necessary mechanical properties to straighten teeth effectively by means of the company's patented fabrication technology and appropriate material selection.

Extensive clinical trials have been conducted with the translucent arch wires at two leading U.S. orthodontic schools. Over 75 patients have used the wire and in all cases the arch wire demonstrated tooth movement in the initial phase of orthodontic treatment. Supporting clinical evidence is provided below.

Month-0 Front View Maxilla View Mandible View
Front Maxilla Mandible
Month-4 Front View Maxilla View Mandible View

The arch wire was approved by the U.S. FDA in May 2008. This was followed by approvals for sale in Canada and Europe. Approval in other international countries is in process.

The wire is currently available in round profile and comes in a variety of diameters and stiffness levels. A rectangular arch wire is also being developed, which is largely applicable in the intermediate and final phases of orthodontic treatment. When released this will be the first ever rectangular translucent arch wire. For more information about the use of the translucent arch wire please also visit the Clear Wires website, which provides doctor and patient specific content.

Aside from providing translucent arch wires, which predominantly target late teens and adults, colored arch wires will be introduced in the latter half of 2009. These colored wires will be offered in hot pink and blue to appeal to the late adolescent and early teen market segment.

Another application for the translucent arch wire is in the field custom orthodontics. Wires can be shaped to fit an individual's arch form leading to less pain and potentially faster treatments. Preliminary development has already begun.

Translucent Arch Wire Translucent Arch Wire
Translucent Braces: Translucent Bracket with the Translucent Arch Wire Translucent Braces: Translucent Bracket with the Translucent Arch Wire
Blue and Pink Colored Arch Wires Blue and Pink Colored Arch Wires