Types of Orthodontic Appliances

Orthodontic treatment often involves specialized appliances that work alongside braces or aligners to guide teeth and jaws into their ideal positions. Each appliance is carefully chosen based on your individual needs and plays an important role in achieving a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile.

Elastics (Rubber Bands)

Elastics, also known as rubber bands, are used to improve the way the upper and lower teeth fit together. For the best results, they must be worn exactly as instructed, since consistent wear ensures the most efficient progress.

Forsus™

The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device is an alternative to headgear designed to correct excessive overbites. It helps guide jaw growth in adolescents, improves bite alignment, and can sometimes reduce the need for jaw surgery.

Headgear

Headgear is often used to treat significant overbites or underbites by gently guiding the growth of the jaw. By applying steady pressure, it helps bring the upper and lower teeth into better balance for improved function.

Herbst® Appliance

The Herbst appliance encourages the lower jaw to move forward while pushing the upper molars back, reducing overbite. It is most effective in growing children and is typically worn for 12 to 15 months.

Palatal Expander

A palatal expander widens the upper jaw by applying gentle pressure during small adjustments. After the desired expansion is reached, it remains in place for several months to stabilize the new jaw width.

Positioners

Positioners are used at the final stage of orthodontic treatment to fine-tune tooth movement. With proper cooperation, this appliance is usually only worn for a few weeks to complete the finishing touches.

Retainers

Retainers, which can be removable or fixed, keep teeth in their new positions after treatment. Wearing your retainer exactly as directed is essential to protect your smile and prevent teeth from shifting.

Separators or Spacers

Separators are small rubber rings placed between teeth to create space for orthodontic bands. They are temporary and should be kept away from sticky foods, floss, or toothpicks until removed.

Twin Block Appliance

The twin block appliance uses two removable pieces that work together to reposition the lower jaw. Comfortable and easy to clean, it helps improve jaw function, facial profile, and long-term bite stability.

MARA Appliance

The MARA (Mandibular Anterior Repositioning Appliance) is a fixed device used to correct severe overbites by encouraging lower jaw growth. Anchored securely to the molars, it reduces the need for extractions or surgery in many cases.