Braces 101

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 bite between 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 to treat patients whose teeth are in an "overbite", with the upper teeth in front of the lower teeth. Headgear gently "pulls" on your teeth to restrict further forward growth of your upper teeth and jaw.

Facemask (Reverse pull headgear)

A facemask is used to treat patients whose teeth are in an "underbite", with the lower teeth in front of the upper teeth. A facemask gently "pulls" on your teeth to stimulate further forward growth of your upper teeth and jaw. Simultaneously it helps restrict lower jaw growth.

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. A removable retainer is then worn for 12 months to prevent relapse.

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

Spacers are little rubber circles that may be placed between your teeth to push them apart so that orthodontic bands may be placed during your next appointment. Usually a maximum of eight spacers will be used. Each case varies. The spacers will typically remain in place anywhere from 1 day to 1 week. The spacers will be removed before we place the bands. Spacers do not mix well with sticky foods, toothpicks, or floss. Please avoid these while spacers are in place. Floss everywhere except where you have spacers.