Elastics (Rubber Bands)
Elastics improve how your upper and lower teeth fit together. Wear them exactly as directed: they work best when they’re on consistently, and taking breaks slows progress.
Forsus Appliance
The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device is a fixed alternative to headgear that helps growing teens correct excessive overbites. It works continuously in the background, so there’s nothing for you to remember to put in or take out.
Headgear
Headgear is used to treat overbites or underbites by applying gentle force to guide jaw growth. It’s typically worn for a set number of hours each day, usually in the evening and at night.
Herbst Appliance
The Herbst appliance encourages the lower jaw forward and the upper molars back to reduce an overbite. It’s fixed in place and most often used for younger, still-growing patients. Treatment with the Herbst appliance typically lasts 12 to 15 months.
Palatal Expander
A palatal expander widens the upper jaw gradually over time to create more space for teeth and improve how the upper and lower arches fit together. We’ll show you exactly how to use it at your fitting appointment.
Positioners
Positioners are used near the end of treatment to fine-tune tooth positions and help set the bite. They’re worn for a short period and are a sign that you’re in the home stretch.
Retainers
Once your active treatment ends, a retainer keeps your teeth in their new positions. Wear it as directed and your results will last. Skip it, and teeth can gradually drift back.
Separators (Spacers)
Separators are small rubber or metal pieces placed between teeth to create a small gap before bands are fitted. They typically go in a week or two before your banding appointment and may cause some temporary tenderness.