Orthodontic Appliances & How They Work
Our website and consultations often mention orthodontic appliances. An orthodontic appliance is any equipment utilized to help bring your teeth, jaw, and oral structures into proper alignment. While our experienced orthodontist, Dr. Kenneth Banasiak, will handle anything related to the brackets and wires of traditional metal braces, there are some pieces you can use yourself. To help you become more familiar with these items, we have provided a brief overview of some of the most common orthodontic appliances.
Learn About Braces, Retainers & Specialized Devices
Follow the links below to learn more about each orthodontic appliance we might recommend for your treatment. Please contact us today if you would like additional information about any of them or if you would like to speak to a team member.
Elastics
Elastics, sometimes called rubber bands, are often prescribed to help improve the fit of your upper and lower teeth. Bite alignment is essential for ideal oral function. Rubber bands come in many colors to make them more fun, or you can select clear for greater discretion. For the best results, please consistently wear them as prescribed.
Herbst® Appliance
One of the advanced techniques we can use to address an overbite is the Herbst® Appliance. We don’t use headgear at our office. We believe there are more effective, innovative, and comfortable options available that can achieve a better outcome. Herbst® Appliance can shift the upper molars backward while gradually moving the lower jaw forward. This method can be particularly effective in younger children who are still undergoing the growth process. This device is generally worn for about 12-15 months, though your experience may vary.
Carriere Motion Appliance
Invented by Luis Carriere, this small, comfortable appliance is a newer orthodontic development. It is used to correct an overbite in a fraction of the time, typically 3-5 months. By utilizing removable elastics in the first stage of orthodontics, it reduces overall treatment time and eliminates the need for headgear.
Palatal Expander
If your upper jaw is narrower than your bottom jaw, palatal or orthodontic expanders can adjust the width of your palate so that ideal alignment can be achieved. This device places gentle pressure on the upper molars to carefully space them wider apart. Once the jaw reaches the proper size, the expander should be worn for several months to minimize the potential for additional movement.
Positioners
Typically, the last step in your treatment, positioners, as the name suggests, help position your teeth where they should remain for your smile. In general, and with consistent use, the positioner should be worn for about four to eight weeks, depending on your unique needs and goals.
Retainers
After treatment, there are two kinds of retainers: removable and fixed. Retainers can be ordered in various colors and patterns to suit your tastes. They ensure that your teeth remain straight and in the newly acquired proper alignment. Without dependable use during this settling period, your teeth could regress and return to their former position. Our orthodontist can tell you how long you must wear this appliance during your appointment.
Separators or Spacers
Like tiny rubber bagels, spacers, sometimes called separators, temporarily hold teeth apart so that orthodontic bands can eventually be placed there instead. Generally, the period between one appointment and the next is sufficient time for adequate space to be created. Avoid eating sticky, chewy foods when you have spacers, and be careful not to displace them with toothpicks or floss.
There’s much to learn about orthodontic appliances in Basking Ridge and Mendham, and we’re ready to help. Contact our office today for more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation with our skilled orthodontist.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Banasiak to start your journey towards a straighter, healthier smile. To learn more about our orthodontic options, contact Banasiak & Nettune Orthodontic Associates in Basking Ridge and Mendham, NJ, today for more information.
