ForsusTM — The Forsus appliance looks like a spring that is connected to the brackets of your braces. It is used when the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth. Treatment with a Forsus appliance can reduce overbite by moving the upper teeth back and the lower teeth forward. After your Forsus is initially placed, you may notice some discomfort. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication (e.g., ibuprofen) will usually alleviate this discomfort.
Carriere Motion® appliance — The Carriere Motion appliance is a device used, usually before any braces are placed, to help correct increased overbite. It typically consists of an upper bonded bar and a lower clear retainer. Elastic bands are attached from the upper bar to the lower back molars. These elastic bands must be worn on a full-time basis (at least 22 hours a day) except when eating or brushing your teeth. It is common to notice some space open up next to your front teeth when this appliance is used. Don’t worry! We promise these spaces will be closed shortly after your braces are placed.
Twin Block — The Twin Block is a removable appliance that consists of an upper and lower retainer. These retainers work together to bring the lower jaw forward and help correct an underdeveloped lower jaw. This type of treatment is most effective during a growth spurt. Retainers must be worn on a full-time basis (at least 22 hours a day) except when eating, brushing your teeth, or playing sports.
Reverse-Pull Headgear (facemask) — This appliance is typically used in young patients to correct an underbite. It encourages growth of the upper jaw to reduce the discrepancy when the lower jaw is ahead of the upper one. This appliance is typically worn between 12 and 14 hours per day and the overall wear is usually between 12 to 18 months, depending on the severity of the bite.
Rapid Palatal Expander — A rapid palatal expander is used to widen the upper jaw to correct a posterior crossbite, so your teeth fit together better. Use of an expander is usually followed by braces to straighten your teeth. Space between your upper front teeth is normal while you are actively turning your expander. This space will go away shortly after you have finished all your turns.
Removable Expander — A removable expander is usually used in young patients to widen a narrow upper jaw and to correct posterior crossbites. It is worn full time (at least 22 hours a day, though removed for eating and brushing your teeth) for approximately six to 12 months and usually part of the time afterward to hold the correction.
Habit Breaker — These fixed (i.e., glued-in) appliances help eliminate thumb- or finger-sucking habits. They usually remain in place at least six months after the habit has stopped.
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