Types of Helpful Appliances
Appliances are used during various stages of the orthodontic process, either to retain the new position of teeth, or in some cases to influence the growth of the jaws for a better bite alignment. Appliances may be fixed or removable.
Types of Appliances
- Retainers: Used after braces are removed to hold teeth in their new positions. You must wear your retainer as prescribed to prevent regression of your treatment.
- Herbst® Appliance: Used to correct overbites, this fixed orthodontic appliance is typically used on younger patients.
- Holding Arches: These fixed appliances are a terrific method of holding valuable space so that a patient can retain all of their teeth, leading to a fuller smile.
- Bionator: Also used to correct overbites in younger patients, and this appliance is removable.
- Palatal Expander: Designed to widen your upper jaw, a palatal expander applies outward pressure on your upper teeth to slowly expand your palate.
- Spacers (Separators): Spacers are elastic rings that are inserted between back teeth before you have braces, providing space for back braces.
- Elastics (Rubber Bands): Rubber bands are used with braces. They help close spaces and improve bites.
- Housebrace/Headgear: For a severe overbite or underbite, a housebrace is sometimes used to help improve jaw growth and facial balance.
- Positioners: Sometimes required to complete necessary final tooth movement to achieve an excellent smile. It looks a bit like a clear sports mouthguard.
- Several Others are available that we can recommend and discuss with you based on individual needs.
As always, contact us if you have any questions.
