Elastics (Rubber Bands)
Elastics, commonly known as rubber bands, help improve how your upper and lower teeth come together. It’s important to wear them exactly as your orthodontist instructs because they are most effective when worn consistently and properly.
Forsus™
The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device offers a comfortable alternative to headgear. It encourages jaw growth in adolescents, helping fix overbites, improve bite alignment, and potentially reduce the need for jaw surgery.
Headgear
Headgear gently pulls your teeth to treat overbites (when the upper jaw protrudes) or underbites (when the lower jaw protrudes). It restricts forward growth of the upper jaw to help align your bite properly.
Herbst® Appliance
The Herbst® appliance is a fixed device mostly for growing children. It helps correct overbites by pushing the lower jaw forward and moving the upper molars backward, typically worn for 12-15 months.
Palatal Expander
This appliance gradually widens your upper jaw by applying gentle pressure on the molars after each adjustment. Your orthodontist will guide you on how to adjust it. After reaching the desired width, you’ll wear it for several months to stabilize the expansion.
Positioners
Positioners are used toward the end of your treatment to perfect tooth alignment. With your full cooperation, you’ll typically wear them for four to eight weeks to complete final tooth movements.
Retainers
Retainers, either removable or fixed, keep your teeth in their new positions after treatment. Wearing your retainer as directed is vital to maintain your beautiful smile and prevent teeth from shifting back.
Separators or Spacers
Separators are small rubber rings placed between teeth to create space for orthodontic bands at your next visit. Avoid sticky foods, toothpicks, and floss around separators to prevent dislodging.
Twin Block Appliance
The twin block consists of two parts—one for the upper and one for the lower jaw—working together to adjust jaw position. It’s comfortable, removable for hygiene, and worn full-time, even while eating. Many patients enjoy its smooth acrylic design and fewer wires. It promotes a broad smile, improved jaw function, better facial profile, and a healthy jaw joint.
MARA Appliance
The MARA (Mandibular Anterior Repositioning Appliance) is a fixed device that encourages lower jaw growth to correct severe overbites and reduce the need for extractions or surgery. It’s anchored to molars and includes removable upper attachments for easier adjustments.