Types of Appliances

Elastics (Rubber Bands)

Elastics (Rubber Bands): These are essential for improving the alignment of your upper and lower teeth. Consistent wear as prescribed by your orthodontist ensures efficient and effective treatment.

Forsus™:

Forsus™: The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device is a modern alternative to traditional headgear. It aids in jaw growth for adolescents, helping to correct overbites and potentially avoiding future jaw surgery..

Headgear:

Headgear: This appliance is crucial for correcting overbites and underbites by controlling the growth of the jaw. It gently influences the positioning of the teeth and jaw.

Herbst® Appliance:

Herbst® Appliance: Often used in younger children, the Herbst® appliance promotes lower jaw advancement and upper molar retraction to correct overbites. It is typically worn for about 12-15 months.

Palatal Expander:

Palatal Expander: This device widens the upper jaw by applying gentle pressure to the upper molars each adjustment period. After achieving the desired expansion, it is worn for several months to solidify changes and prevent regression.

Positioners:

Positioners: These are used in the final stages of orthodontic treatment to perfect tooth positioning. Typically, they need to be worn for 4-8 weeks, depending on patient cooperation.

Retainers:

Retainers: Available as fixed or removable, retainers maintain the new position of your teeth after treatment. Proper care and consistent wear are crucial to avoid shifting of teeth post-treatment.

Separators or Spacers:

Separators or Spacers: Small rubber rings that create gaps between your teeth to facilitate the placement of orthodontic bands. They are removed prior to installing the bands and should be kept away from sticky foods and dental floss.

Twin Block Appliance:

Twin Block Appliance: This consists of two parts that work together to adjust the lower jaw’s position. It’s a user-friendly, full-time appliance that improves jaw alignment and provides a more comfortable experience due to its smooth acrylic makeup and minimal wire use.

MARA Appliance:

MARA Appliance: Designed to encourage forward growth of the lower jaw, the MARA appliance helps reduce severe overbites and the likelihood of needing extractions or jaw surgery. It is fixed to the molars and adjusted over time to guide jaw development effectively.