Composite hooks enhance rotational control

We find hooks placed in positions of convenience useful in correcting rotations, especially with lingual appliances. The steps involved in building them are straightforward. Following acid etching of the spot where the hook is to be placed, a small amount of bonding material is carried onto the enamel surface and a base established by a series of circular motions with the tip of an explorer. The bonding material is then extruded with the tip of the explorer. As soon as the material is extruded to the desired length and curvature, the UV light is applied. Of course, if needed, bigger hooks can be constructed and then trimmed to shape with a bur. A short-beak band remover works best (in a scraping motion) for the removal of these hooks. The following figures illustrate the point (Figs. 1-7).