The third phase in orthodontic treatment is correction of molar position. The title of this step is a good description of the process Ð aligning the molars in an appropriate configuration. The ideal molar relationship was established by Dr. Edward Angle. He defined the ideal molar relationship to be Class I. Class I molar relationship is shown in the following picture.

The goal of correction of molar position is to place the first molars in a Class I relationship as depicted above.

What molar relationship does the patient have?
A.) Class I
B.) Class II
C.) Class III

If the patient already has a Class I molar relationship, does the patient need correction of molar position? NO!

The process of correction of molar position is accomplished by bodily movement of the first molars into a Class I molar relationship. Correction of molar position requires a wire with the following specification relative to the wire used during the leveling phase of treatment:

                    higher strength
                    higher stiffness
                    lower range

Shape:

Note:
     Round wires produce uncontrolled tipping because they cannot produce a counterbalancing couple.
     Rectangular wires produce controlled tipping because they produce a counterbalancing couple.

Would you prefer a round or a rectangular wire?
Answer: Rectangular because translation is required; thus you must create a CBC.

Size:

Note:
     Nomograms allow you to compare many wires of different shapes, sizes, and compositions to each other.

Which wire would work best for this phase?
A.) 16 X 22 NiTi
B.) 18 SS
C.) 17 X 25 B-Ti