Elastics (Rubber Bands)
Elastics improve the bite relationship between your upper and lower teeth. Wear them exactly as directed — consistent use makes them work far more efficiently.
Forsus™
The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device is a headgear alternative that promotes jaw growth in adolescents, corrects excessive overbites, improves how your teeth fit together, and may help prevent the need for jaw surgery.
Headgear
Headgear is prescribed for patients with an overbite, where the upper jaw is too far forward, or an underbite, where the lower jaw protrudes. It applies gentle force to restrict further forward growth of the upper teeth and jaw.
Herbst® Appliance
The Herbst® appliance reduces overbite by gently guiding the lower jaw forward and the upper molars backward. Used primarily in younger growing patients, it’s typically worn for about 12 to 15 months.
Palatal Expander
The palatal expander gradually widens the upper jaw by applying gentle, consistent pressure to your upper molars with each adjustment. Your orthodontist will show you how and when to make adjustments. Once the target expansion is reached, you’ll continue wearing the appliance for several months to maintain and stabilize the result.
Positioners
Positioners finalize the last tooth movements in your orthodontic treatment. With consistent wear and full cooperation, most patients only need to use the positioner for four to eight weeks.
Retainers
Retainers — removable or fixed — hold your teeth in their new positions after treatment is complete. Your orthodontist will explain how to care for your retainer and how long to wear it. Following those instructions is critical to protect the results you’ve worked hard to achieve.
Separators or Spacers
Separators are small rubber rings placed between your teeth to create space for orthodontic bands at your next appointment. They’re removed before the bands are placed. While in place, avoid sticky foods, toothpicks, and flossing around them.
Twin Block Appliance
The twin block appliance is unique in that it consists of two separate pieces — one for the upper arch and one for the lower — that work in tandem to reposition the lower jaw. It’s worn full time, even while eating, but is removable for easy cleaning. Made from smooth acrylic with minimal wiring, it’s one of the more comfortable jaw-repositioning options available.
The result is a broader, more balanced smile, improved jaw function, a better facial profile, and a stable, healthy temporomandibular joint.
MARA Appliance
MARA stands for Mandibular Anterior Repositioning Appliance. This non-removable appliance guides lower jaw growth to correct severe overbites and reduce the likelihood of tooth extractions or jaw surgery.
The MARA is anchored to the molars with crowns, modified crowns, or bands. The lower attachments are fixed; the upper attachments are removable so your orthodontist can make adjustments as treatment progresses.
