Modern orthodontics has come a long way, allowing us to address a wide range of bite and misalignment issues efficiently and precisely. One of the ways we accomplish this is through the use of orthodontic appliances. When used in Phase One or Phase Two orthodontics, they can improve the bite alignment for younger patients and improve how their mature smile develops.
Our team at NAY orthodontics offers a variety of orthodontic appliances. Dr. Nay might recommend devices such as:
- Herbst® Appliance: This appliance consists of metal guidance rods on a hinge and four or more metal crowns that attach to a set of molars on the upper and lower jaw. The appliance is bonded into place and redirects the position of the lower jaw when the patient bites or chews. Over time, the device retrains the jaw to create a more optimal bite relationship between the upper and lower jaws. Each Herbst appliance is customized by the orthodontist according to the unique patient's needs. It may be recommended as an alternative to headgear, as it can be worn at all times and provide more discreet and continuous correction.
- Carriere® MOTION 3D™ Appliance: This appliance attaches a metal bar to the outer surface of the first molar and canine tooth on the upper jaw. A metal bracket on the molar of the lower jaw is also bonded into place, and an elastic band connects from the canine to the lower bracket. The band provides tension that gradually repositions the jaw forward, creating a cohesive bite alignment. This treatment is designed to be comfortable for the patient and self-ligating, which means it doesn't need a visit to the orthodontist to progress the treatment.
- Banded Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE): One of the two types of RPE appliances, this device is a fixed metal expander fitted to the roof of the mouth. It is held in place by metal bands around the first molars and sometimes the premolars, depending on patient needs. The appliance is designed to expand gradually over a period of weeks through the manual turning of a screw in the center, moving the two sides further apart. Each appliance is customized to the patient's unique bite, as is the tightening schedule, which the orthodontist will discuss during the treatment planning.
- Bonded Rapid Palatal Expander: This second variant of RPE functions similarly to the banded appliance, with the main difference in how it is attached. Instead of metal bands, the bonded RPE uses tooth-shaped acrylic caps that fit over the posterior teeth. The caps are bonded into place for the duration of treatment, keeping the appliance secure.
- Lower Lingual Holding Arch (LLHA): This subtle dental appliance consists of a thin archwire suspended against the inner surface of teeth in the lower jaw. Two metal bands around the first molars keep the wire in place. The archwire maintains space within the bite, preventing teeth from shifting as the jaw grows. Because the wire is so thin, it does not interfere with tongue mobility or normal hygiene routines.
- Elastic Bands: Elastic bands are used alongside traditional metal brackets and function similarly to the Carriere appliance, using the tension of the bands to reposition the jaw. The bands come in a variety of sizes and tension to personalize the treatment according to each patient's needs.
- Retainers: Made from a combination of metal and acrylic or clear plastic, these appliances are used to keep teeth in their current alignment, preventing dental shift or relapse of the bite. Retainers for the upper jaw typically fit over a wide portion of the upper palate, while retainers in the lower jaw fit closely against the interior gum tissue around the base of the tongue. Close-fitting hooks encircle the teeth to hold the retainer securely in place. These appliances can be removed for eating and oral hygiene.
The Right Appliance for Every Need
With our wide array of orthodontic appliances, our team at NAY orthodontics can effectively select the one that best meets your needs. We're happy to answer questions about our appliances and what you can expect. Contact our office or visit our site to learn more.