Herbst Appliance
The Herbst appliance helps line up your bottom and top jaws. It shifts the lower jaw forward and the upper molars backward. This type of appliance is fixed into place and is usually used for younger patients to reduce the appearance of an overbite. This will drastically help the bite (the way the top and bottom teeth fit together).
Elastics
Elastics help exert pressure in a specific direction to help shift your teeth. Different size elastics signify varying forces of pressure. It is important to wear elastics as prescribed by your orthodontist.
Separators
Separators create space between the teeth and allow bands to fit over the teeth. It is normal for patients to experience soreness after a separator is placed. Separators are a very important step in getting braces because they create room for the braces which are typically placed about a week after.
Retainers
Retainers can either be removable or fixed in place. They are designed to hold your teeth in place and prevent them from shifting after completing your orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist will instruct you on the best ways to care for your retainer and provide details regarding the length of retainer treatment. At Flower Mound Orthodontics, we currently offer Hawley retainers and Essix retainers.
Invisalign®
Invisalign are clear, removable aligners that gradually shift the teeth into proper alignment. The series of aligners are custom made to fit perfectly against your teeth causing little to no discomfort while also shifting your teeth. This teeth-straightening method is the number one patient requested clear aligner system in the United States.
It is comfortable, convenient, and virtually unnoticeable. This orthodontic treatment is ideal for teens and adults with minor to moderate orthodontic concerns. For instance, Invisalign treatment can be used to address malocclusion, overbite, underbite, gapped teeth, and overcrowded teeth.
Palatal Expander
The palatal expander is a custom-made device that is used to widen the upper jaw so that the bottom and upper teeth fit together. This is done by putting gentle exerting pressure on your upper molars each time the palatal expander is adjusted.
Once the desired expansion is reached, you will wear the appliance for a few months to stabilize the expansion and to prevent regression. An orthodontist may recommend an expander for patients with impacted teeth, overcrowding, or crossbite.
Orthodontic Appliances FAQs
How long does it take to make custom orthodontics?
It typically takes around a month to make custom orthodontic appliances. First, there is a mold taken, which is shipped to a separate company where they make appliances and then shipped back to the orthodontist. Typically this process takes somewhere between 3 to 4 weeks.
Do custom orthodontics hurt or feel uncomfortable while wearing?
Any orthodontic appliances restructure the shape of one’s jaw and teeth. They apply pressure to the teeth to push them into an aligned position, so patients will feel some pressure. This can sometimes be painful and sore for patients’ mouths and jaw. Many orthodontic appliances are removable, so when patients are experiencing excessive soreness and pain they can remove them (with your orthodontist’s approval) to give their mouth a break.
How can I take care of my teeth if I’m wearing braces or a retainer?
When undergoing orthodontic treatment patients should remember to be consistent with their oral health, and very on top of it because orthodontic appliances are known to be a cause of oral health problems post-treatment. Some ways to keep up with your oral health is to remember to floss twice a day (or after every meal), and floss at least once a day, use a fluoridated toothpaste, clean your appliance after you eat, avoid soda and candy, and keep up with your dental cleanings.
Visit Our Flower Mound, TX Orthodontics Practice
An orthodontic appliance is one of the orthodontic services that Dr. Sankey provides to the public. Dr. Sankey will recommend an orthodontic appliance, when necessary, to restore balance and health to your smile. When dental problems are left untreated, it can result in a more complex dental issue. It is important to note that some orthodontic appliances may cause minimal discomfort as patients adjust to their new devices.
Our team at Flower Mound Orthodontics makes every effort to ensure our patients are receiving treatment plans tailored to their needs. During your visit, Dr. Sankey will evaluate your teeth and jaw to determine which dental appliance is right for you.
Explore your oral appliance options with our team at Flower Mound Orthodontics. To schedule an appointment, call us at 972.833.8212 or request a dental exam online.