Types of Orthodontic Appliances

At The Orthodontic Place, we understand the importance of achieving a healthy and confident smile for patients of all ages. Orthodontic treatment plays a pivotal role in enhancing oral health and correcting various dental issues, such as misaligned upper teeth, baby teeth, and lower teeth, as well as jaw irregularities.

The world of orthodontics has evolved significantly over the years, offering an array of types of appliances to treat patients and correct teeth position. Whether you are considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or a loved one, we are here to support you on this exciting journey of transformation.

How Do I Know Which New Appliance To Get?

Choosing the right orthodontic appliance is a decision that should be made by an experienced orthodontist, like one of our very own at The Orthodontic Place. They can assess your individual needs and recommend the best treatment plan for your teeth.

The Different Types of Orthodontic Appliances

Orthodontic treatment has evolved significantly, offering a wide variety of appliances and techniques to address diverse permanent teeth and upper and lower teeth concerns and achieve your desired smile. The type of orthodontic appliance that is right for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and upper jaw and lower jaw alignment. We will work with you to develop a personalised treatment program that achieves your desired teeth alignment results.

A Fixed Appliance

Fixed orthodontic appliances are securely attached to the patient’s teeth and remain in place throughout treatment. These types of non-removable appliances exert continuous pressure on the teeth to guide them into their desired positions, such as moving the upper jaw forward or the lower jaw forward. 

Fixed appliances are a common and highly effective way to address a wide range of orthodontic issues, such as misaligned teeth and jaw irregularities. These types of fixed appliances, including braces, a palatal expander, and lingual braces, offer superior results when compared to removable appliances like clear aligners for correcting complex dental problems, such as severe overbites or underbites.

Rubber Doughnuts vs. Rubber Bands – What’s the Difference?

While rubber bands and doughnuts are made of elastic materials, they have distinct roles in orthodontic treatment. Rubber bands apply specific forces to move teeth and correct bite issues, requiring patient compliance for effectiveness and periodic replacement. 

On the other hand, rubber doughnuts are used to secure the orthodontic archwire within the brackets and do not need to be removed or replaced by the patient. Orthodontists use each of these components strategically to achieve the desired outcomes of a patient’s orthodontic treatment plan.

A Twin Block Appliance

The Twin Block Appliance is a functional orthodontic appliance commonly used to treat Class II malocclusions, characterised by protruding upper front teeth. This type of condition can cause an improper bite and facial aesthetics. The Twin Block Appliance is particularly effective in correcting this issue in growing children and adolescents.

A Functional Appliance

A functional appliance, in the field of orthodontics, is a specialised type of orthodontic device designed to correct issues related to the alignment of the upper and lower jaws, as well as problems with the bite (how the teeth come together). 

These appliances are typically used in growing children and adolescents when the jaws are still developing. Functional appliances help guide and stimulate proper jaw growth and positioning to address conditions such as Class II malocclusions (overbites).

A Removable Appliance

This is a type of orthodontic device that can be taken out of the mouth by the patient and is commonly used for specific orthodontic purposes, such as promoting forward growth of the upper dental arch or correcting the position of the lingual arch or back teeth. 

What Does a Removal Appliance Achieve?

Removable appliances are typically made of acrylic or plastic materials and offer a degree of flexibility and convenience for patients, as they can be removed for cleaning, eating, and certain activities. They are often used in cases where minor tooth movement or adjustments are needed, such as closing gaps between teeth or correcting rotations.

Reach Out to The Orthodontic Place Today

At The Orthodontic Place, we use all types of orthodontic appliances to achieve the best possible outcome for your orthodontic treatment. Our experienced orthodontists will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that uses the right appliance for your individual needs and goals.

Head to our website for our contact information for your next appointment. We are committed to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile that you can be proud of.

The Team

Once you consult with our team at The Orthodontic Place, you won’t ever have to search online for ‘Types of Orthodontic Appliances’ ever again. We prioritise your happiness and satisfaction at all times, making sure that you’re left with a beautiful and confident smile that you love.

You can visit us at either of our two nearby clinics in Kent Town and Hindmarsh, South Australia. Call us, book an appointment, or schedule a free virtual consultation today!