There’s more to orthodontic treatment than braces and Invisalign
While Invisalign and braces are the most well-known types of orthodontic treatment in West Orange County, they are definitely not the only appliances we use to improve our patients’ smiles.
Palatal Expander
Palatal expanders do exactly what it sounds like they would do—they expand the palate, which is the middle part of the top jaw. When someone’s palate is too narrow, there is not enough room for all of their teeth, especially once the adult teeth start erupting.
Creating more space before all of the adult teeth come in allows them to grow in straighter, and often eliminates the need for tooth extraction. This is why palatal expanders are often used during the first phase of two-phase treatment with kids between the ages of 7 and 10.
Herbst appliance
This appliance is used to correct an overbite, which is when the top jaw sticks out further than the bottom jaw. It is attached to the back teeth of both jaws and slowly pushes the lower jaw forward while drawing the upper jaw back.
A Herbst appliance is often used before a patient gets braces or Invisalign, but it can be used during braces treatment as well. This is similar to using elastics with braces, with the main difference being a patient doesn’t have to remember to wear or change anything.
Nance appliance
The Nance appliance works as a placeholder for teeth. It consists of two bands attached to the back top molars and a wire that is attached to each of the bands and runs the entire length of the palate. A small plastic piece is attached to the wire and rests on the palate.
A Nance appliance is often used to keep the back teeth from shifting forward if a child loses their baby teeth too soon.
Thumb-sucking appliance
Persistent thumb-sucking after a child loses their front baby teeth can cause problems with their jaw development and adult teeth. Also called a palatal crib or thumb-sucking guard, this appliance is mounted behind the front teeth and serves as a reminder not to suck their thumb.
Orthodontic appliances from Fravel Brewer Orthodontics are both effective and affordable, and they can save you money on future treatment. Schedule a free initial exam today to learn more!