Are you about to start treatment with a fitted orthodontic tool and think that it’s all going to be about brackets, wires and tightening?
That is the crux of it, yes, but when you are undertaking treatment, your orthodontist may recommend the use of some tools that you may not have heard of.
So, what are some of the orthodontic add-ons that may be used in your realignment process?
Table of Contents
TADs
TADs, or temporary anchorage devices, are a rather recent development that has been added to the world of fitted braces Liverpool.
What are they? Well, without sounding too graphic, they are, in essence, mini implants or screws that your orthodontists will place into your jaw to temporarily anchor part of your orthodontic device.
For instance, if you have a tooth that needs to be pulled back under the gum line for symmetry, then a TAD is going to be a great way for your orthodontist to do this, thus giving you a more symmetrical smile.
Of course, when it comes to having a TAD fitted, you will likely need to up your cleaning regime, to keep it sterile and free from debris. That way, the chances of an infection occurring will go down.
Once your orthodontist determines that your tooth is where it needs to be, the TAD will be removed.
Rubber Bands
Rubber bands, also known as elastics, are commonly used in orthodontics as part of a patient’s treatment plan. They play an essential role in helping to correct the alignment of the teeth and, in some cases, the jaw, too, and they are often used in conjunction with braces or other orthodontic appliances. Rubber bands work by applying gentle and continuous pressure to specific areas, which aids in moving the teeth into their proper positions.
For instance, they can be attached to specific brackets or hooks on braces to guide the teeth into the desired positions. One example is if a patient has an overbite or an underbite, rubber bands can be used to help align the jaws and teeth properly.
In cases of spacing issues between teeth, rubber bands can be employed to bring the teeth closer together. If the centre line of the upper and lower teeth doesn’t align correctly, rubber bands can be used to assist in achieving a more symmetrical smile.
Rubber bands are useful in addressing various bite problems, such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. The elastic force helps to adjust the relationship between the upper and lower teeth and improves overall bite functionality.
In other cases, rubber bands can be used to create anchorage, which means they provide support to hold certain teeth in place while others are moved.
Herbst Appliance
A Herbst appliance is a type of fixed orthodontic appliance used to correct overbites and jaw discrepancies. It is designed to promote the growth and development of the lower jaw while restricting the movement of the upper jaw.
It consists of 2 metal crowns or bands that are cemented to the molars in the upper and lower jaws. These bands are connected by metal rods that extend along the sides of the mouth. The rods allow the lower jaw to be advanced into a more forward position, which helps correct the overbite.
The main aim of it is to stimulate the growth of the lower jaw, allowing it to catch up with the growth of the upper jaw. By doing so, it helps improve the relationship between the upper and lower jaws, achieving a more harmonious bite and facial profile.
The Herbst appliance is typically fixed in the mouth and cannot be removed by the patient, unlike removable appliances like retainers or aligners. The treatment duration with the Herbst appliance can vary depending on the specific case, but it is often worn for several months or longer to achieve the desired results.
Fitted Retainer
Most people have heard of a retainer, but what is a fitted one?
A fitted retainer is a custom-made dental appliance worn after orthodontic treatment. It helps maintain the corrected position of teeth and prevents them from shifting back. Made from moulds of the patient’s teeth, it ensures a precise fit for effective retention.
This can cause issues with flossing, so your dentist may recommend that you use a water flosser to help clean the area.
Dental wax
If your brackets are rubbing against your inner cheeks, don’t worry!
Dental wax is a soft, pliable material used in dentistry to alleviate discomfort caused by braces or other dental appliances. It is applied to brackets, wires, or rough spots on dental devices to create a smooth surface, preventing irritation and soreness in the mouth.
