Methods: The RN is a fixed functional appliance consisting of bands on the upper first molars joined together with a 0.036 inch stainless steel wire that is bent around the anterior contour of the palate. Just lingual to the upper incisors the wire is complemented with an acrylic Nance button, which is modified with a downward and backward incline projection. The labial aspect of this projection is smooth and when the lower incisors come into contact with it, they are directed into an edge-to-edge relation with the upper incisors. This has the net effect of relocating the mandible into a class I relation.
Results: A 14-year-old boy in his late mixed dentition stage of dental development presented with mild crowding, a deep labio-mental fold and a skeletal class II jaw relation caused by an underdevelopment of the mandible. Treatment was initiated using the RN only and continued for a period of 12 months. This was followed by full fixed appliances for another 10 months and resulted in class I skeletal and dental relations, a reduced overjet and an improved facial profile.
Conclusion: The RN, if applied correctly is a simple fixed functional appliance that can be used with confidence, comfort and economy to both the patient and Orthodontic practitioner.