Orthodontic appliances adjust teeth or jaw structure. Fixed braces use brackets and wires to straighten teeth, while a palatal expander widens the palate. Removable devices include headgear, braces, and retainers. Mouthguards and night guards are used for preventive reasons.
An orthodontic appliance is any device used to adjust the shape or alignment of the teeth or jaw structure. Orthodontic appliances come in a wide variety of styles depending on the specific orthodontic needs being addressed. Some devices need to be fixed on the teeth or inside the mouth to be most effective, while others are removable by the patient.
One of the most common types of fixed braces are braces, in which small ceramic or metal brackets are attached to the center of the teeth. A wire is then passed horizontally through the brackets to connect them. The floss pushes lightly on the teeth to slowly straighten them or reposition them over time.
Fixed appliances can also be used to treat problems with the structure or alignment of the jaw. If your jaw is too narrow, your mouth may not have enough room for all your teeth, which can cause your teeth to buckle or overlap. A palatal expander is an orthodontic appliance that is used on people with overcrowded teeth. It’s a thin piece of metal that fits directly into the palate and hooks onto the back molars. The metal contains a screw that is tightened every day, which slowly widens the palate to make more room for the teeth.
Removable braces are devices that can be easily removed by the patient. The headgear is a removable appliance that fixes protruding teeth caused by a narrow upper jaw. Braces or wires are secured around the back teeth, while a removable strap called a bow is worn around the back of the neck. Braces can be attached to the ends of the bow to put pressure on the jaw. The device is typically worn daily to be most effective, but can be easily removed by the patient.
Retainers are a type of orthodontic appliance that can be fixed or removable. They are generally worn after other orthodontic work has been completed to stabilize the teeth and prevent them from returning to their original positions. A fixed retainer is a ceramic mold of the roof of the vent and is permanently attached. Removable retainers are typically made of plastic that fits over the palate and wires that attach to the back teeth. They are usually worn at night for at least nine months after orthodontic work is completed, but can be worn for longer.
Orthodontic appliances can also be used for preventive reasons. A mouthguard is a removable molded piece of plastic that fits directly over the teeth and is used to protect the teeth and jaws during physical activity or sports competitions. Another type of preventative device is the night guard, a removable piece of plastic that fits over your teeth and is worn at night. It is generally recommended for people who grind their teeth while sleeping.
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