The following paragraphs describe the types of appliances that may be used during your treatment.

Elastics (Rubber Bands)

Wearing elastics (rubber bands) improves the fit of your upper and lower teeth. Wear rubber bands as instructed because the rubber bands work far more efficiently if they are worn as prescribed. 

 
Forsus Springs

This is a non-removable orthodontic functional appliance that is used for the treatment of an overjet (top teeth protrude out from lower teeth). The spring-like appliance creates an upward and backward force on the upper molars similar to a headgear, while at the same time pushing the lower teeth and jaw forward. This helps in auto-rotating the lower jaw forward and advancing the lower teeth to reduce the bite discrepancy between the upper and lower front teeth.

Typically, the Forsus Springs are worn for 6 to 8 months, with adjustments every 5 to 6 weeks in order to accomplish the forward movement of the lower jaw and teeth in a physiologically acceptable manner. The springs may cause some slight spaces to open between teeth. Don't worry, we will close the spaces once the springs are removed.

The lips and cheeks may take a few days to adjust to the springs. Fortunately, the springs provide a light, constant force, so the teeth typically do not feel too much pressure or discomfort. If the springs irritate the cheeks while sleeping on your side, we have some Dry Angles which may be placed between the cheeks and springs to prevent irritation.

Palatal Expander

The palatal expander “expands” (widens) your upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on your upper molars each time an adjustment is made. Your orthodontist will instruct you about when and how to adjust your expander. When you achieve the desired expansion, you will wear the appliance for several months to solidify the expansion and to prevent regression.



Positioners

Positioners complete the final tooth movements in your orthodontic treatment. With your full cooperation, you should only need to wear the positioner appliance for 4-8 weeks.





Retainers

Retainers may be removable or fixed. They hold your teeth in their new, correct positions after your teeth have been straightened. Your orthodontist will instruct you on how to care for your retainer and about the duration of the wear. Wearing your retainer as directed is crucial to prevent regression of your treatment. 

Separators (or Spacers)

Separators are little rubber doughnuts that may be placed between your teeth to push them apart so that orthodontic bands may be placed during your next appointment. The separators will be removed before we place the bands. Separators do not mix well with sticky foods or with toothpicks and floss.