Origins: Dentofacial Traction
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Wescott first reported the placement of mechanical forces on the bones of the maxilla in 1859 (Wescott, 1859). He used two double-clasps separated by a telescopic bar to correct a crossbite in a 15-year-old girl. One double clasp was soldered to the tube and the other was soldered to a screw that fit into the tube, thereby allowing lengthening of the screw to widen the palate. Adjustable spurs were also attached perpendicular to the telescopic bar to allow forward repositioning of the incisors. By the author’s own admission, however, the entire expansion procedure was slow and tedious and lasted several months.

FIG. 2.1.2. Wescott's expansion device. Copyright © 1859 American Dental Association. Reproduced with permission of ADA Publishing Co., Inc. from Wescott A. A case of irregularity. Dental Cosmos 1859;1:60-68.

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