Appliances
Appliances
Removeable Appliances
Our dentist at All Dental & Braces and Cosmetic Dentistry may recommend appliances at different stages of your treatment. Orthodontic appliances can keep teeth in place or influence their movement and the movement of the jaws. They can either be removable or fixed and bonded in place.
Types of Appliances
- Retainers: Put in place after an orthodontic treatment, such as braces. Though often removable, it must be worn as much as possible to prevent shifting.
- Herbst® Appliance: Dr. Rohini Singh may use this fixed (permanent) appliance to correct overbites in children and young patients.
- Palatal Expander: Widens the upper jaw by pushing the molars outward.
- Spacers (Separators): Small plastic hoops that create extra space between the back teeth. Avoid flossing or sticky food when wearing spacers and call 254-200-1893 if they fall out at any time.
- Elastics (Rubber Bands): These are worn with traditional metal braces. They should be replaced each day, as directed by our dentist, and not be taken off for eating or other activities.
- Headgear: If a patient suffers from a severe under- or overbite, headgear can be used to correct the issue.
- Positioners: This is usually the final step and provides the last necessary movements for alignment.
Care of Appliances
Patients should take care to wear all orthodontic appliances as directed by our dentist. Each should be brushed daily with a toothbrush and toothpaste. If they are removed for any reason, they should never be stored in your pocket or in a napkin.