Forsus
Developed by 3M Unitek, the Forsus is a fixed spring appliance used to treat overbite malocclusions, such as when the upper teeth protrude and the lower lip is trapped under these teeth. Since the spring works 24/7 applying force to correct your bite, it has been used as a substitute for rubber bands. The stretchability of the coil spring allows for more movement, making it more comfortable to wear. It is also made of durable material, resulting in minimal breakage and increased reliability.
Space Maintaining Appliances
The Nance and Lower Lingual Holding Arch Appliances are used to prevent the posterior teeth from migrating forward when baby teeth are lost prematurely. These appliances are very effective at holding onto space that is desperately needed for the correct arrival of future adult teeth.
Rapid Palatal Expander / Expansion Appliances
Expansion appliances are commonly used when upper and/or lower jaws are too narrow to fit properly with one another or if there is inadequate space for the planned eruption of future adult teeth.
It is very common for “Dad’s teeth” to be found in “Mom’s jaws” and adult teeth can be delayed, deflected off course, or even impacted so that they don’t erupt at all. Early treatment of these problems can make later full braces orthodontic treatment significantly easier and less costly when performed in time.
Thumb/Finger Appliance
Sucking is a natural reflex that relaxes and comforts babies and toddlers. Children usually cease thumb sucking when the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt. Typically, children stop between the ages of 2 and 4 years. Thumb sucking that persists beyond the eruption of primary teeth can cause improper growth of the mouth and misalignment of the teeth. If you notice prolonged and/or vigorous thumb sucking behavior in your child, talk to your dentist.
Our orthodontists have a variety of at home solutions to try first and will help supervise your child quitting their habit. When at home techniques are not adequate to stop the habit, we have simple treatments that can stop the habit and undo any jaw or tooth changes that may have been caused by the former habit.
