The Clearstep Closing Screw is designed to close spaces where teeth have been removed or are missing. This approach is an efficient but still invisible method of closing spaces, and can be used to close a space completely, or make a space smaller to facilitate cosmetic work such as the placing of a bridge or implant.

The clear positioner part of the appliance incorporates the front teeth and those on the opposite side of the arch. It acts as a retainer, and also secures the appliance in place. This ensures that appliance is as discreet as possible, with no wires or metal visible at the front of the mouth.

The screw part of the appliance sits on the inside of the teeth, alongside the space that needs to be closed, and a clasp sits over the tooth that is to be moved forward. Only one tooth at a time is moved.

The screw element of the appliance is activated by the patient with a small key. One quarter turn, twice a week in the direction indicated by the arrow will gently affect the movement required.

If the screw is not activated in accordance with the instructions supplied, the tooth will not move and the treatment will not progress as planned. However, if the screw is over activated this may result in the appliance failing to fit, and also have a negative impact on the teeth and treatment plan.

The Closing Screw must be worn as much as possible, but be removed to eat, drink and clean the teeth. Failure to wear the appliance in accordance with the directions may result in anegative impact on treatment timescales.

The timescale for which the Closing Screw is worn will depend on the size of the space that needs to be closed, and the number of teeth that need to be moved.