Orthodontic treatment has made significant advances in recent years, offering a range of appliances to address various dental alignment issues. These tools not only aim to improve the aesthetic appeal of your smile but also contribute to better oral health. Let’s delve into some of the orthodontic appliances that our orthodontists might recommend to enhance your or your child’s smile.
Different Types of Orthodontic Appliances
Carriere® Distalizers
Carriere Distalizers are innovative devices designed to correct bite issues without the need for headgear or the extraction of permanent teeth. They work by moving the back teeth into the correct position, making room for the front teeth to be straightened. This appliance is especially effective for patients with overbites or overcrowded teeth, setting the stage for a more efficient orthodontic treatment.
Forsus Appliance
The Forsus appliance is a non-removable device used primarily to correct class II malocclusions, which are typically characterized by an overbite. It provides a continuous, gentle force to adjust the position of the upper and lower jaws, promoting proper alignment. This appliance is often preferred for its effectiveness in treating bite issues without the need for external headgear.
Invisalign® Retainers
After the active phase of orthodontic treatment, such as with Invisalign, retainers are crucial for maintaining the new position of your teeth. Invisalign retainers are clear, making them virtually invisible and more aesthetically pleasing compared to traditional wire retainers. They are custom-made to fit your teeth snugly, ensuring that your beautiful new smile stays in place.
Lower Expanders
Lower expanders are used to widen the lower jaw to correct crowding and improve the fit of the upper and lower teeth. They are similar to palatal expanders but are designed specifically for the lower arch. These devices can make significant improvements in the overall harmony and function of the mouth.
Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders widen the upper jaw by applying gentle pressure on the upper molars each time an adjustment is made. This appliance can correct a narrow palate and ensure there is enough room for the upper teeth to fit properly alongside the lower teeth. It’s most effective in children and adolescents, whose jaw bones are still developing.
Retainers
Retainers are perhaps the most well-known orthodontic appliance. They are used post-treatment to maintain the position of straightened teeth. Retainers can be fixed or removable and are essential for preventing teeth from gradually shifting back to their original position.
Spring Aligners
Spring aligners are used for minor adjustments, such as correcting slight overcrowding or spacing issues. They are compact and less invasive than full orthodontic braces, offering a convenient solution for small corrections that can make a big difference in your smile.
Tongue Cribs and Thumb Cribs
Tongue cribs and thumb cribs are specialized appliances used to deter habits that can negatively impact dental alignment, such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting. These habits can lead to or exacerbate orthodontic issues. By preventing these actions, these cribs help in creating a healthier environment for teeth to align correctly.
Choosing the right orthodontic appliances is crucial for achieving the best results. Your orthodontist will consider various factors, including your age, the severity of your dental issues, and your lifestyle before recommending the most suitable options. With today’s innovative technology and the wide array of appliances available, achieving a healthy, beautiful smile has never been more accessible.
Orthodontic Appliances
These appliances are designed to guide your teeth to their correct placements, and the variety of options available might astonish you! Whether for yourself or your child, we’ll identify the most suitable appliance to meet your specific requirements. Our orthodontic offices are conveniently located in Powell, Newark, Westerville, or New Albany, and Pataskala, Ohio. If you would like to schedule a consultation with our skilled orthodontists, Dr. Jeff, Dr. Soo or Dr. Betina, please contact Shirck Orthodontics at a location near you!