To successfully complete the orthodontic treatment plan, patients must work together with the orthodontist. The teeth and jaws can only move toward their corrected positions if the patient consistently wears the elastics (rubber bands), headgear, or other appliances as prescribed.
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 and remember that the rubber bands work far more efficiently if they're worn as prescribed.
Headgear
Headgear is used when the upper jaw and lower jaw are not in balance with one another. If the upper jaw is too far forward compared to the rest of the skeletal base, the cervical-pull headgear is used to hold back the upper jaw as growth is occurring, so that the lower jaw can "catch up" with it; thus the jaws can become more even with one another or balanced.
Reverse-Pull Headgear
In younger patients, if the upper jaw is not developing forward enough within the facial complex, a reverse-pull headgear, sometimes called a facial mask because it resembles a stream-lined "catchers mask" (from baseball), can be worn to place forward traction on the upper jaw to promote forward movement of the jaw within the facial complex. This appliance also moves the upper teeth forward, which is generally a benefit in these patients. The patient undergoing reverse-pull headgear therapy usually wears the appliance for a period of 6-9 months for the most effective change.
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.
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.
Click here for more information on how to care for your retainer.
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, toothpicks, or floss.