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There are a lot of orthodontic appliances these days – from removable plates to clear aligners to metal and ceramic braces. Treatments can also vary between appliances that are fixed to your teeth or appliances that are removable.
They each have their uses and benefits. Orthodontists have the specialised knowledge to consider all possibilities based on variables like age, possible jaw imbalances, differences in the size of your teeth, and more. They know what and when to use the appropriate treatment option and will work with you to create a custom smile.
Removable appliances are used to move teeth with wire springs. These springs do not move teeth as accurately as braces do, so the use of removable appliances is limited to simple tooth movements, usually in children who are yet to lose all of their deciduous teeth.
The wire springs are attached to a smooth, pink, plastic supporting plate which is held securely in the mouth by wire clasps.
Orthodontic growth modification refers to treatments that guide or influence the natural growth of the jaws and facial bones in kids or adolescents. The goal is to correct skeletal imbalances—for example, when the upper jaw is too narrow, the lower jaw is too far forward, or the upper jaw sticks out.
During growth (usually between ages 8–14), the bones of the face and jaws are still developing. Special orthodontic appliances can stimulate or restrict growth in certain directions. This helps align the jaws before all adult teeth have erupted or before growth stops. Once growth is complete, jaw imbalances typically require orthognathic (jaw) surgery instead of growth modification.
Common therapies include:
Maxillary expansion appliances are used to widen a top jaw which is too narrow in relation to the lower jaw. This happens by gently stretching the growth plate in the middle of the roof of your mouth, pushing the two halves apart. An expander pushes against your teeth or palatal tissue. As the expander widens your upper jaw, new bone forms in the centre.
Palatal expansion works best in growing patients. For those who have stopped growing, surgery may be needed along with an expander. There are numerous types of maxillary expansion appliance – fixed and removable. Fixed maxillary expanders use an expansion screw (which is turned regularly by the patient). Removable appliances are orthodontic plates with a built-in expansion screw which is turned regularly by the patient. The expander usually stays in place for approximately 1 year.
Functional appliances are devices used to correct a significant disharmony in the relationship between the upper and lower jaws. They work by influencing the growth and development of a growing patient. The most common use of a functional appliance is to encourage the forward growth of a retrusive or “under-developed” lower jaw. The functional appliance holds the lower jaw forward over a period until the teeth, jaws and joints have “adapted” and the desired jaw position has been obtained.
The effectiveness of a functional appliance depends on:
Functional appliances align the jaws not the teeth, so they are usually used as a first stage of treatment (in a growing patient with a significant jaw disharmony) prior to the alignment of the teeth with fixed appliances (braces).
Tried, trusted, and better than ever—traditional metal braces remain a popular choice for all ages. Metal brackets are affixed to the teeth, and wires thread through them to guide teeth into their correct positions. The wire is usually made of metal alloys optimised for comfort while providing sufficient force to align the teeth. Today’s designs are smaller, smoother, and more comfortable, and you can even customize your look with fun-coloured elastics at each visit.
Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are popular with teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. They are visually less prominent. For these reasons, ceramic braces tend to be used mainly on upper front teeth.
Self-Ligating Ceramic Braces use the latest technology, so they work fast and look good. Self-ligating technology removes the need for ligatures, the elastic bands that were used to hold the wire in your braces. This innovation has major advantages. The SL Ceramic braces design can make your braces easier to clean and eliminate the hassle of stained elastics.
SL Ceramic braces are made from high-tech ceramic with smooth, rounded edges for a comfortable fit. SL Ceramic braces are translucent, so they are less visible than metal braces. Without ligatures to stain or hold food particles, they’re easier to keep clean. And, when the time comes to take off your braces, all that will remain is your dazzling new smile.
Lingual braces are attached to the inside of the teeth and are sometimes requested by patients because they cannot be seen.
However, lingual braces are more difficult to manage than conventional braces and, although they are popular, patients do take a bit longer to get used to them. They do interfere with speech more than conventional braces and treatment usually takes a little bit longer.
Clear aligners are nearly invisible plastic shells that snap over your teeth. As you wear them, they apply gentle pressure to your teeth, gradually repositioning them.
Clear aligners are sets of clear, thin, plastic-like trays that are custom-formed to fit your mouth and sequentially apply the pressure required to move the teeth. Typically, each aligner is worn for 1-2 weeks at a time, at least 22 hours a day, and moves teeth a fraction of a millimetre at a time.
Aligners must be removed when you eat or drink and when brushing and flossing. The number of aligners and treatment times needed to correct misaligned teeth varies based on the individual’s orthodontic issues and the movements needed to correct them. Examples of aligners include Invisalign and Angel Aligners.
Surgical orthodontics, also called orthognathic surgery, is corrective jaw surgery performed to remedy skeletal problems that affect the ability to bite, chew and speak.
If your upper and lower jaws are out of position, you may be a candidate for surgical orthodontics. This incorrect positioning can impact how your teeth fit together, impairing your ability to bite, chew, and speak. With the assistance of an oral maxillofacial surgeon, your orthodontist can reposition your teeth and jaws for optimal mouth function.
Entrusting your smile to an orthodontist is a decision that reaps lifelong benefits. With each treatment option designed to cater to unique needs, you’re assured a journey that prioritises your long-term well-being at every step.
A straight smile often boosts self-confidence and self-esteem. The changes brought about by orthodontic treatment can provide a renewed pride in one’s appearance.
Misaligned teeth or jaw discrepancies can affect your ability to speak, bite, and chew. Orthodontic treatment straightens your teeth and can resolve other issues surrounding your teeth to help your teeth function properly.
Crowded or crooked teeth can be breeding grounds for bacteria, leading to cavities and gum disease. By aligning the teeth, orthodontics reduces the spaces where harmful bacteria can hide. Straight teeth are easier to clean, floss, and maintain. This leads to better oral health, fresher breath, and a reduced risk of periodontal disease. Leading to better long-term health of teeth and gums.
Conditions like deep overbite, underbite, and crossbite can strain the jaw, leading to disorders in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Orthodontic treatment can correct these misalignments, mitigating potential complications.
By investing in orthodontic treatment now, you can prevent many future dental issues. This can translate into significant savings on potential future dental treatment.