Types of Appliances

What do orthodontic appliances do?

There are several orthodontic appliances with a variety of uses. Orthodontic appliances are effective for facilitating efficient tooth movement, holding proper spacing in the mouth for permanent teeth to grow, and/or helping to support proper growth and development of the jaw bones.

Close up of clear aligners in hand of woman. Orthodontic treatment for whitening and straightening

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.

Frankel™

The Frankel Appliance is a functional orthopedic appliance that is used to help create additional space for permanent teeth to erupt by expanding the arches. It stimulates the growth of the lower jaw which will better align the upper and lower teeth.  The Frankel can also be used to help with protrusion or overjet by retracting the upper teeth and creating a better bite.

Headgear

Headgear is used to treat patients whose teeth are in an overbite, with the upper jaw forward of the lower jaw, or an underbite with the lower jaw forward of the upper jaw. Headgear gently “pulls” on your teeth to restrict further forward growth of your upper teeth and jaw.

Herbst® Appliance

The Herbst® appliance reduces overbite by encouraging the lower jaw forward and the upper molars backward. This fixed appliance is used mostly for younger, growing children and is worn for about 12-15 months.

Palatal Expander

The palatal expander “expands” (or 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 prevent regression.

Positioner

Positioners complete the final tooth movements in your orthodontic treatment. With your full cooperation, you should only need to wear the positioner appliance for four to eight weeks.

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.

Every smile starts with an initial consultation!

We at Finazzo Orthodontic Specialists create beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. We specialize in clear, traditional braces and Invisalign, and much more. Children, teens, and adults make wonderful patients.  Call now to schedule your free consultation.