Do You Know What Is In Your Mouth?

With so many new patients starting orthodontic treatment at Spannhake Orthodontics, we thought we would give a little refresher course on the parts that make up braces. Do you know what is in your mouth? With so many different parts that make up braces, it can get a little confusing for most patients to know the different parts and their functions.

Keep reading to learn about 5 orthodontic appliances and how they help you achieve that picture perfect smile.

Elastics 

Elastics or rubber bands help move the upper and lower teeth relative to each other, ultimately achieving a better bite. These orthodontic rubber bands are typically effective for correcting overbites, underbites, or other types of alignments of the jaw. They are also useful for moving a tooth out of alignment or to close a space in the mouth.

Fixed Retainers

Fixed retainers consist of a metal wire bonded to the back of the teeth. Fixed retainers can stay in place indefinitely.
Forsus

A forsus appliance is used to correct a class II bite by pushing the lower teeth forward and the upper teeth backward. Unlike rubber bands, this appliance is not removable.
Headgear

A removable appliance worn to restrict growth of the upper jaw and improve overjet problems. It normally consists of a facebow that attaches to the teeth and a strap that fits around the neck or head.
Mara

Dr. Spannhake wants to make sure you are completely aware of the appliances we use in order to give you a straight smile. We hope you have a good understanding of what is in your mouth, but should you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask us at your next appointment.