Types of Appliances in Atlanta, GA
Do you have questions about the types of appliances that you may need during your orthodontic treatment? Patel & Womble Orthodontics is here to make the process as simple as possible. Board-certified orthodontists Dr. Ruchir R. Patel and Dr. Brian A. Womble provide a variety of options at each of our Norcross and McDonough locations.
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Rubber Bands / Elastics
If you’re wearing metal braces, rubber bands play an essential role in the course of your treatment. Wearing them as directed can ensure that your teeth are straightened faster and more effectively.
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Forsus™ Device
The Forsus™ fatigue-resistant device makes it possible for you to avoid the need for headgear. It plays an important role in braces for kids, and braces for teens to help correct jaw alignment without orthognathic surgery.
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Headgear
For our teen braces patients that have an overbite or underbite, headgear is an effective orthodontic appliance that can gently “pull” the teeth to encourage more appropriate jaw growth and development.
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Herbst® Appliance
A Herbst® appliance is used when a child’s lower jaw is set too far back. It brings the upper and lower molars into better alignment and is usually worn for about a year.
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Palatal Expanders
If the upper jaw is too narrow, a palatal expander can widen it to improve spacing and alignment of the teeth. Under the direction of our Atlanta orthodontists, you will carefully adjust your expander each day over the course of several months, until desired expansion of the jaw is achieved.
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Positioners
When adjusting the final movements of your teeth, a positioner may be needed for one or two months at the end of your orthodontic treatment.
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Retainers
A fixed or removable retainer holds your teeth in the correct location after your braces have been removed. Wearing it regularly will prevent relapse or regression of your orthodontic treatment. Otherwise, the teeth may shift out of place.
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Spacers / Separators
These small “O” rings look like tiny rubber bands and are placed between certain teeth to create space for other types of orthodontic appliances or bands. You should not chew sticky foods, use a toothpick or floss in these areas, as the separators can easily be removed.
Which Orthodontic Appliance Will I Need?
There’s only one way to find out exactly which types of appliances you may need during the course of wearing braces. Contact us to schedule a consultation at either of our McDonough or Norcross locations. Board-certified orthodontists Dr. Ruchir R. Patel and Dr. Brian A. Womble of Patel & Womble Orthodontics will be happy to answer any questions that you have about orthodontic appliances. While you’re here, be sure to ask about our interest-free dental financing plans.