The simplest appliance to bodily move two teeth and close a diastema is the Diastema Controller. It is composed of two brackets and a segmental guide wire that is tied to the brackets with metal ligature ties. An elastic is then carried from the distal of each bracket to provide an equal force on both teeth in a mesial direction. The guide wire assures bodily movement and prevents unwanted rotations or changes in the axial inclination. Elastics of the appropriate size are provided with each appliance. The patient should be instructed to change them daily for the best results. Note: Metal ligature ties should be tightened just enough to maintain guide wire positioning. Over-tightening these ties will create excess friction and slow the closure process.









