Each appliance plays an important role in moving and maintaining your teeth. Following your orthodontist’s instructions carefully will help ensure your treatment is as effective as possible, bringing you closer to that beautiful, healthy smile!
Elastics (Rubber Bands)
Wearing elastics (or rubber bands) helps improve the fit of your upper and lower teeth. Be sure to wear them as prescribed, as they are most effective when followed as directed.
Forsus™
The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device is an alternative to headgear, promoting growth in adolescents to eliminate excessive overbites, improve the fit of teeth, and potentially prevent the need for jaw surgery.
Palatal Expander
The palatal expander gently widens the upper jaw by applying pressure to your upper molars during each adjustment. Once the desired expansion is achieved, you will continue to wear the appliance to solidify the change and prevent regression.
Positioners
Positioners are used to complete final tooth movements in orthodontic treatment. With full cooperation, you will typically wear the positioner for just four to eight weeks.
Retainers
Retainers play a crucial role in maintaining the results of your orthodontic treatment after your braces are removed. They are designed to hold your teeth in their new, corrected positions while your gums, bone, and muscle adjust to the changes. There are two main types of retainers:
A. Essix Retainers
These clear, removable retainers offer an aesthetic, comfortable, and discreet option for keeping your teeth in place. Custom-made from a mold of your newly aligned teeth, they may cover the full arch or just the area from canine to canine.
B. Bonded Retainers
A small, permanent wire is placed behind your top and/or bottom teeth to hold them in their correct positions. This type of retainer can remain in place for life, offering long-term support to your smile.
Separators or Spacers
Separators are small rubber doughnuts placed between your teeth to create space for orthodontic bands during a future appointment. These are temporary and should be avoided with sticky foods, toothpicks, or floss.
Kois Deprogrammer
A Kois Deprogrammer is a 3D printed appliance designed to help Dr. Pagan find the optimal mandibular posture for your treatment. This small, clear plastic appliance sits behind your upper teeth and has a 4mm wide platform to guide your jaw into its most comfortable position.
