Other Orthodontia We Offer
Falls Orthodontics offers so much more than braces. We can provide you with mouth guards, head gear, and more – read on to learn about the different types of appliances we can use in your treatment.
Expander (Rapid Maxillary Expander)
An expander is a device typically used before braces. Its goal is to widen the upper jaw to create space for erupting teeth. If the upper and lower jaws are positioned disproportionately to each other, this can often be addressed early, resolving issues that could develop into more significant problems later. An expander can help to create better facial balance as a child grows and develops. Parents are heavily involved in this treatment, because the expander has to be “turned” with a small tool. Expander treatment can last 6 to 12 months.
Lingual Holding Arch
A Lingual Holding Arch is an arch that is banded on the back molars, and works to retain the space gained when the baby teeth are lost. This is a temporary appliance, only remaining in the mouth to maintain space and allow for a reduction in front crowding.
Elastics
Elastics are prescribed as force to move your teeth and bite into the proper position. Wearing the elastics prescribed by your doctor as configured and demonstrated by your orthodontic assistant will move your teeth in a way that can’t be done with braces alone. It’s important to wear them as advised to ensure efficient treatment. Before leaving your appointment, be sure to grab a few bags of elastics in the correct size. Call our office if you have any questions or need more elastics.
Mouthguard
We always strongly recommend wearing a mouthguard during any contact sports. However, during orthodontic treatment a mouthguard is even more important. This protects your teeth and your appliances and can prevent or lessen a head injury. These are available from your orthodontic assistant or at the reception desk in our office.
When you’ve finished treatment with braces, we have the capability of providing a molded, fitted mouthguard for any athlete. Ask an orthodontic assistant or call to schedule an appointment.
Headgear
Headgear is an important part of orthodontic treatment, and when used correctly can make significant changes in the position of the jaws. The appliance acts as an exterior anchor to modify facial growth and to move the teeth into place. Teeth are easy to move using a consistent, gentle force, and headgear can provide the force needed to continue treatment. A headgear appliance is used at night or when a patient is inactive, such as while reading or watching TV.
Retainers
A retainer is an appliance typically made of clear plastic or wire that keeps teeth from moving after orthodontic work has been completed. It can take some time for the new position of your teeth to become permanent, and without the help of retainers they will try to shift back to their original position (this is called relapse).