Whether you are wearing metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign®, other appliances are often used to get the bite correction that is needed.
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.
Forsus™
The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device is an alternative to headgear which promotes growth in adolescents. It helps to eliminate excessive overbites, improves the fit of teeth, and possibly prevents the need for jaw surgery.
Palatal Expander
The palatal expander widens the upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on the upper molars each time an adjustment is made. Palatal expanders help fix narrow jaws and create room for crowded or blocked out teeth.
Learn more about palatal expanders on our blog
Retainers
Retainers may be removable or glued to the teeth. They hold your teeth in their new, correct positions after your teeth have been straightened. Dr. Zach and his team will instruct you on how to care for your retainers as well as how long they need to be worn. Wearing your retainer as directed is crucial to prevent regression of your treatment!
Learn more about retainers on our blog
Separators or Spacers
Separators are little rubber doughnuts that may be placed between your teeth to push them apart so 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.
Learn more about separators on our blog