Types of Appliances

Retainers

Retainers are worn once the active portion of your orthodontic therapy is complete. They are responsible for stabilizing your teeth and holding them in their new positions. Retainer appliances can either be fixed or removable depending on the outcome we are seeking. We will discuss your retainer options close to the end of treatment. Our professional team will deliver care and use instructions so that you are familiar with how to use and care for this vital appliance. It is essential to wear your retainers as prescribed to avoid any relapse of your new smile.

Elastics Bands

Part of your orthodontic treatment may entail wearing elastic bands to improve how your lower and upper teeth come together. Wearing your elastics precisely as the doctor prescribes and for the correct amount of time each day will help your ortho treatment progress and secure ideal results. Treatment time can drastically take longer than estimated if you choose not to wear your elastics as requested.

Palatial Expander

A palatal expander creates space in the upper palate or arch. This dental appliance functions by creating subtle pressure on your palatal bone and upper teeth whenever a turn of the screw or adjustment is made. We will show you how to adjust your palatal expander and advise on how often to turn it. On average, palatal expanders are worn for approximately 6 to 8 months to create adequate space and stabilize the issue. Some clients may require an interim retainer to replace the expander and others will not require a retainer.

Headgear

Headgear is used to fix differences between lower and upper jaw sizes. This removable appliance is usually worn for 10 to 12 hours a day for approximately 9 to 12 months to modify facial growth. There is an inner bow that secures to the upper molars along with an outer bow that joins to a neck strap. This is the most common headgear design used when the upper jaw is situated forward of the lower. There is an opposite headgear used to fix the reverse issue. An underbite is a result of having the lower jaw outgrow the upper jaw. Reverse headgear consists of a fixed upper expander appliance. The time one has to wear headgear differs dependent on how severe the orthodontic issues are.

Positioners

Positioners are removable appliances that are used after braces have been taken off in certain instances to help stop unwanted facial growth or to finish the final movements of certain teeth.

Separators (“Spacers”)

Spacers or separators are tiny rubber bands situated between the start of your braces and your back molar teeth. They function to increase space. This space is needed to fit the bands to attach archwires or appliances around the molars. These appliances are used approximately for 7 to 10 days. If one comes out before your band-fitting visit, please call our clinic to see if we can replace it if required.

Herbst Appliance

The Herbst appliance is a fixed piece used to facilitate lower jaw growth mostly on kids. This appliance is typically worn for approximately 12 to 16 months. It holds the lower jaw in a forward position while simultaneously moving the upper molars backward.