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Evidence-based considerations for determining appointment intervals.

A century ago, when orthodontic wires were constructed out of precious metals, their working range was relatively small, and office ap pointments had to be scheduled as often as once or twice a week. Over time, stainless steel replaced precious metals, and the orthodontist’s working range improved, thanks to the ability to bend various loops and springs into the archwire. When elastomeric modules and stainless steel coil springs became the primary means of delivering force, monthly appointments were adequate. As the lattice structure of orthodontic wires evolved and working ranges further increased, a six-week interval became possible. In recent decades, the introduction of nickel titanium and superelastic wires has permitted appointments to be scheduled as far as 10 weeks apart in some cases. It has long been established that optimum scheduling contributes to on-time finishing of orthodontic treatment.1 This article reviews current practices regarding intervals between visits and presents recommendations based on evidence from the literature.