Types of Orthodontic Appliances
Transpalatal Bar / Nance / Lingual Arch
The transpalatal bar / Nance / lingual arch appliances are used in the upper and lower arches to maintain space. Primarily, they are placed in patients who are in transitional dentition (not all adult teeth have erupted), to hold space in the arch for the permanent teeth to erupt. In cases where it is appropriate to use this appliance, it will be part of the beginning phase of orthodontic treatment.
Transpalatal Bar / Nance
The transpalatal bar / Nance is a metal bar attached to the tongue side of the upper first molar bands, and form-fitted along the roof of the mouth. It may or may not have acrylic. The transpalatal bar helps to maintain the width of the dental arch. We commonly use this appliance for patients who have an impacted permanent tooth, and exposure of that tooth is suggested.
Lingual Arch
The lingual arch is a metal bar that is attached to the tongue side of the lower first molar bands, and form-fitted behind the teeth. This appliance is recommended when baby teeth are lost prematurely, so the space may be maintained.
Biteplane
The biteplane is an appliance used to reduce a deep overbite, whereby the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively. It works by preventing the patient from biting down all the way on his or her back teeth. This allows the back teeth to emerge naturally, which reduces the overlap of the front teeth.
The bite plane is made of wire and acrylic, which can be removable or cemented in place by an orthodontist.
The removable bite plane is most effective when worn all the time.
The quality of the end result and completing treatment on time is dependent upon the patient wearing the bite plane consistently.
Fixed Lingual Retainers
Fixed lingual retainers are wires bonded behind the upper and/or lower front teeth, on the day the braces are removed. The lower wire is bonded in place to stabilize the lower front teeth during the retention phase of treatment.
This wire remains in the mouth for at least two years, but ideally should remain as long as the patient is able to keep the backside of the lower front teeth clean.
Fixed Retainer
When a fixed retainer is used in the upper arch, it is usually behind the two upper front teeth. This is typically used for patients who had a large space between the front teeth before orthodontic treatment.
The upper fixed lingual retainer should remain in place for as long as possible or until your general dentist recommends it be removed.
Forsus Springs
Forsus springs are used in cases where the upper teeth are forward of the proper fit with the lower teeth. They have almost the same effect as rubber bands and are primarily used when patients have proven to be uncooperative with rubber band and/or headgear wear.
Important: Forsus springs are NOT a substitute for headgear. They may offer an acceptable compromise when headgear wear is poor.
Forsus springs are used as a second resort because rubber bands are usually more comfortable to wear and allow for easier brushing. These springs are used in conjunction with upper and lower braces and are placed by an orthodontist.
Forsus springs are held in place by tubes on the upper molars and attached to the lower archwire.
Effectiveness: They are not removable and ensure a constant force on the teeth.
Palatal Expander
In the field of orthodontics, no appliance is more effective at expanding the maxillary (upper) arch. A palatal expander is our first choice for patients who require an increase in the width of the upper dental arch.
It helps correct crossbites and creates needed space when there is crowding.
Palate expanders use two or four teeth to anchor themselves in place. By turning a small screw, we can achieve expansion of the upper jaw by as much as 3/4 of an inch!
Key Goal: The goal is to move the bones of the palate apart, not just the teeth.
Age Factor: The younger the patient, the more rapid and stable the correction.
When a patient reaches the stage of skeletal maturity (approximately age 16 for girls and around age 18 for boys), the bones that comprise the upper jaw fuse. After this, expansion through orthopedics is extremely difficult without surgical assistance.
Rubber Bands
Rubber bands are the primary mechanism we use to move teeth so they fit together correctly top to bottom. They can be worn in any number of configurations.
Attachment: Rubber bands are attached using hooks that are part of the brackets or the bands.
Functionality: Rubber bands and wires are responsible for moving the teeth.
The rubber band phase of treatment is the longest part of the average patient’s treatment process.
We offer tooth-colored rubber bands for those seeking maximum aesthetics.
Fun colors are available for those who want to make a fashion statement.
Note: Consistent use of rubber bands is crucial for optimal treatment results. If you experience discomfort in your jaw joint, please let us know.
Separators
Separators are small rubber or metal rings placed between the contacts of the teeth. They create space to allow for the placement of bands on the molar teeth.
Placement: Separators are placed five to ten days prior to the start appointment.
Discomfort: Initially, they may cause minor discomfort and may feel like food stuck between your teeth.
We recommend avoiding sticky or chewy foods to prevent the separators from being dislodged.
Check regularly: If separators fall out, contact our office to determine if they need to be replaced.
Turbo Brackets
Turbo brackets are appliances used to reduce a deep overbite, whereby the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively.
How They Work: These appliances prevent the patient from biting down all the way on the back teeth, allowing the back teeth to emerge naturally and reducing the overlap of the front teeth.
Turbo brackets are small metal brackets cemented behind the two upper front teeth.
Effective: They cannot be removed.
Initial Difficulty: You may experience difficulty eating at first, but we recommend soft foods during this transition. Over time, the back teeth will come together.
Retainers (Removable)
The slip cover or Essix retainer (clear plastic) is the first initial retainer most patients receive on the day the braces are removed.
Purpose: Retainers maintain the alignment of teeth while allowing for controlled, minute movement (“settling”).
Long-term Commitment: Retainers are as important as braces for the long-term result of orthodontic treatment.
Shifting and crowding of the teeth can be part of the normal aging process. Wearing retainers allows you to maintain your youthful smile long after nature intended.
Important: Please follow the use, care, and maintenance instructions provided. We will advise you on any special instructions for your particular case.
