Types of Appliances

Elastics (Rubber Bands)

Wearing elastics (or rubber bands) improves the fit of your upper and lower teeth. Wear rubber bands as instructed, and remember that the rubber bands work far more efficiently if they’re worn as prescribed.

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Forsus™

The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device is an appliance that attaches to braces that is designed to correct overbites/protruding teeth.  It replaces headgear and works like permanent rubberbands.

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Herbst® Appliance

The Herbst® appliance reduces overbite by encouraging the lower jaw to grow forward and move the upper molars backward. It is typically used for more severe cases and is most effective for young patients who are rapidly growing.  This fixed appliance is usually used in combination with braces and only in place for a portion of the total treatment time, about 9-12 months.

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Palatal Expander

The palatal expander “expands” (or widens) your upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on your upper molars each time an adjustment is made. Dr. Trentini 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.

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Space Maintainers

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Bite Guard/Occlusal Splint

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Temporary Anchorage Device

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Retainers

Removable retainers can be clear plastic or made of colored acrylic with a wire. Permanent retainers can also be used, which are wires bonded to the inside of the front teeth. They hold your teeth in their new, correct positions after they have been straightened. We will instruct you on how to care for your retainer and about the duration of wear. Wearing your retainer as directed is crucial to prevent regression of your treatment.

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Separators or Spacers

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