Types of Appliances
ELASTICS (RUBBER BANDS)
Your upper and lower teeth will fit better when you use elastics (or rubber bands). It's important to remember that rubber bands are more effective if they are worn properly.
PALATAL EXPANDER
By gently pushing on your upper teeth, the palatal expander "expands" your top jaw as you become used to it. Your orthodontist will explain to you when and how to adjust your expander. You'll wear the gadget every day for many months after reaching the desired expansion in order to maintain the enlargement in place and prevent relapse.
POSITIONERS
Your orthodontist completes the last stages of tooth movement with the use of positioners. For four to eight weeks, you should use the positioner appliance, this timeframe only applies if you are fully engaged in the treatment process.
RETAINERS
Detachable or permanent retainers may be used to maintain the corrected position of your teeth. Your orthodontist will provide you detailed instructions on how to care for your retainer throughout your treatment. To avoid the need to retreat, it is essential that you wear your retainer as recommended.
SEPARATORS OR SPACERS
A separator is a little rubber doughnut that is used to press your teeth apart in preparation for your next visit with the orthodontist, during which your braces will be applied. Before applying the bands, the separators will be removed. Using toothpicks and floss is not recommended when you have separators.
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