Our office is always happy to answer your questions and provide information. Below is a list of dental appliances that may be used during your treatment.
Pendulum Appliance
Used to correct your bite on the side of your mouth (to correct class II malocclusions by distalizing upper molars), this appliance is usually worn for 3-5 months. It uses a plastic “button” that touches the roof of the mouth as an anchor to move the molars back into their correct positions.
Pendex Appliance
A type of Pendulum Appliance that corrects class II malocclusions and bite that uses an expansion screw to widen the upper palate. Within the “button” that touches the roof of the mouth is a keyhole and we’ll give you instructions on where to place the key and turn it. Turning it will widen your upper palate. This is usually worn for 3 to 6 months.
Distal Jet Appliance
This non-removable appliance is used to move upper teeth backward. It corrects teeth that have rotated and distalizes molars.
Nance Appliance
This is often used while waiting for your bicuspids to grow into place or to prevent upper molars from rotating or moving forward after use of another appliance to move your molars back.
It’s important that you brush around the bands daily and do not eat chewy or sticky food while wearing this appliance.
Thumb/Finger Appliance
Thumb sucking is a natural reflex that comforts babies and toddlers and usually ceases when the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt, usually between ages 2 and 4. Thumb sucking that persists 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, let us know. A “fixed palatal crib” can be put on the child’s upper teeth which stops the habit of thumb sucking, often within the first day of use.
Tongue Thrusting Appliance
Similar to a mouth guard, this is worn at night unless a more permanent appliance is required. Tongue thrusting occurs when the you press your tongue against your front teeth, and can cause problems with teeth alignment that must be fixed..[/panel]
