Orthodontic appliances are used in combination with braces or alone to improve the alignment of the teeth and bite. Izadi Orthodontics’ orthodontics services use a range of orthodontic appliances to address specific orthodontic concerns. Appliances are used to improve the aesthetics and function of the smile by correcting crooked teeth, malocclusion, and musculoskeletal misalignment.
Izadi Orthodontics offers orthodontic appliances as part of comprehensive early intervention treatment plans for children. Orthodontic appliances are commonly used as part of a phase one style treatment that addresses myofunctional and developmental issues early on in the child’s life. Early-phase orthodontic treatment can prevent problems with speech development, bite discomfort, tooth damage, and a child’s confidence.
Learn More About The Maintenance & Care of Your Oral Appliance.
Orthodontic Appliances in Timonium, MD
Herbst Appliance
A Herbst appliance is an effective alternative to traditional headgear. Less cumbersome, the Herbst appliance is secured to your child’s teeth for improved treatment adherence and favorable results.
Herbst appliances are ideally used in combination with braces to correct an overbite. The Herbst appliance is attached to the molars and connects the upper and lower jaw with a metal tube. Patients can use the device to adjust the positioning of the upper jaw in relation to the lower jaw, gradually aligning their child’s bite.
Typical treatment time is about 12 months but will vary depending on the degree of malocclusion being treated.
Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders are used to treat underdeveloped or small palates. The expander is designed to stretch the palate allowing room for stable, permanent tooth development.
The palatal expander is typically used to treat the upper jaw. The device is custom fabricated and worn daily to expand the girth of the upper palate gradually.
A palatal expander may be used as part of phase 1 treatment for children. Expanding the pallet during early oral development is ideal and may provide optimal results. Using a palatal expander early on in a child’s life may prevent the need for tooth extraction, braces, or even jaw surgery.
Sagittal Appliances
Sagittal appliances are typically designed to wear on the lower arch of teeth. The sagittal device helps to expand the lower arch, addressing overcrowding in patients with small lower jaws.
This device is removable but can be secured using screws. Izadi Orthodontics will make personalized recommendations and provide instructions for use depending on the personal needs of each patient. The sagittal device is typically worn for at least 22 hours a day.
The device should be removed for thorough cleaning at least once a day.
Retainers
Retainers are commonly used oral appliances that help keep teeth in proper alignment after completing a braces treatment. Patients with minor orthodontic concerns or in phase 1 therapy may use a retainer instead of braces. Retainers are custom designed and fabricated to fit the patient’s mouth. Children can choose fun designs or colors to make them feel more engaged with their retainer treatment. Izadi Orthodontics will provide patients with detailed and personalized instructions on retainer use.
Orthodontic Appliances FAQs
Do I need to wear a retainer after orthodontics treatment?
Compliance with retainers is essential for successful results. Retainers significantly help reduce the chance of orthodontic relapse, an issue where your teeth shift back to their crooked position after treatment with braces. Patients who do not closely follow retainer instructions risk undoing all the time and effort put into their orthodontic treatment.
How do I clean my retainer?
Cleaning your retainer is easier than you think. Clean it at least once a day. Use a little bit of hand soap and cold water by gently scrubbing it using a designated toothbrush. Rinse the retainer thoroughly by holding the plastic parts. If your retainer is turning white (accumulating hard plaque) or developing an unpleasant smell over time, soak it in retainer cleaner solutions or use retainer cleaner tablets regularly, but please do not use denture cleaner tablets as they damage any solder joints that may exist in it. Retainers are easy to clean with an electric toothbrush and toothpaste on a daily basis as well.
Will I have to wear a retainer forever?
Retention is generally for life, and orthodontists are able to move the teeth naturally. We highly recommend bonded retainers, especially for patients that start out with serious malocclusions (incorrect bites), generalized crowding, or spacing. Teeth, unfortunately, move as we get older, so it is best to have retainers and to follow the regimen recommended by Dr. Izadi in order to prevent relapse, re-treatments, or future regrets! We also conform retainers into nightguards too if the patient experiences grinding, clenching, or any other para-functional habits in their sleep.
What can I expect when getting a Herbst appliance?
A Herbst appliance is a device that helps correct your bite and align your jaws. You will need to wear it for several months. This oral device works by gently pushing your lower jaw forward. You might feel some initial discomfort, but it’s a comfortable and effective way to improve your bite and jaw alignment.
How long do I need to wear a Herbst appliance?
The duration of wearing a Herbst appliance will vary depending on your specific treatment plan. However, you should expect to wear it for several months, often between 9 to 12 months. Dr. Izadi will provide a more precise timeline based on your needs and progress.
What can we expect with our new palatal expander?
A palatal expander is a device that we use to widen your upper jaw. It is a small appliance with an expansion screw in the center. Dr. Izadi will show you how to turn the screw regularly, gradually widening your palate. Patients report that it is a comfortable process, and you’ll notice a difference in your bite and jaw alignment over time.
How long do I need to wear a palatal expander?
The duration of wearing a palatal expander can vary. However, a typical treatment time is often a few months, often between 3 to 6 months. Dr. Izadi will determine the exact timeframe based on the amount of expansion you need and your progress. Regular check-ups will ensure the expander is working effectively.
What are the possible side effects resulting from a sagittal appliance?
Sagittal appliances also can cause some initial discomfort, as well as changes in speaking. You may notice that your jaws and teeth feel a bit sore, while your speech sounds different for a while. Fortunately, these are temporary side effects that usually subside when you become accustomed to the appliance. It is a safe, effective method of improving one’s bite and alignment of the jaws.
How long will I need to wear a sagittal appliance?
The duration of wearing a sagittal appliance can vary depending on your specific treatment plan. You’ll wear it for several months, often between 6 to 9 months. Dr. Izadi will determine the exact timeframe. You will need to attend regular check-ups to check your progress and ensure the appliance works as it should.