| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| ID | OA-0331 |
| Type | distalizer |
| Category | distalizer |
| Fixed/removable | fixed |
| Primary function | maxillary molar distalization |
| Malocclusion target | Class II (dental) |
| Inventor | originator unclear; "Celtic" branding suggests European origin |
| First year | 1990s |
| Period | modern / historical |
| Status | current |
| Uses TADs | no |
The Celtic appliance is a fixed intraoral Class II distalizer, likely spring-based, designed to distalize the upper molars without patient compliance. It represents a niche in the fixed distalizer category alongside more widely studied designs like the Pendulum and Distal Jet. Clinical literature on the Celtic specifically is limited compared to mainstream distalizers — it appears to be used in practices with specific training in the design. The core mechanism involves fixed palatal springs or cantilevers anchored to premolar bands and activated against the molar tubes, producing distal force on the upper molars.
Similar to other spring-based fixed distalizers: palatal cantilever springs (likely SS or TMA wire) are activated to deliver a distal force to the molar tubes while the reaction force is absorbed through a palatal anchor (acrylic button or transpalatal bar). The exact spring geometry differentiates the Celtic from the Pendulum — different wire diameters, spring loop designs, or activation mechanisms may distinguish this appliance. Expected outcomes are comparable to other fixed distalizers: 2–4 mm molar distalization over 4–8 months, with some degree of molar tipping as a side effect.
Class II malocclusion requiring molar distalization; growing patients; non-extraction philosophy; practices specifically trained in Celtic appliance protocols. Clinical case selection mirrors that for the Pendulum (Pendulum appliance) and Distal Jet (Distal jet).
Limited peer-reviewed clinical data specific to this appliance design. Molar tipping side effects expected (as with all spring distalizers without TAD anchorage). Requires accurate band fit and spring activation. Clinical outcomes depend significantly on clinician training with this specific design.
springs)
Fabrication mirrors other palatal spring distalizers: precise band fits, accurate spring bending, broad palatal anchorage unit. The specific Celtic spring geometry should be confirmed with the ordering doctor — this is a design with specific training requirements, and the lab should ideally have a reference from the prescribing clinician. CFL prices the Celtic — similar to the ACCO, positioning it as a mid-range distalizer option.
— more widely documented spring distalizer.
mechanism; more bodily movement.
compliance-dependent distalizer.
PMC 2021](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8185153/)
Products](https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/treatment-products/class-ii-appliances/)
documented based on category context and CFL pricing.