Types of Orthodontic Appliances

Straight A Orthodontics is committed to giving our patients the information they need to improve their smiles as part of their orthodontic plan of treatment, including information on the different types of appliances.

What Are the Different Types of Orthodontic Appliances?

Dr. A has been helping people achieve beautiful straight smiles for over three decades. An important part of his success is ensuring that his patients understand the different types of appliances that are available.

Facemask

A facemask is a removable appliance designed to increase forward growth of a patient’s top jaw. This will help align the jaws better and will also help correct any crossbite that may exist.

Headgear

Headgear is a removable appliance designed to modify growth of a patient’s top jaw so that the bottom jaw may catch up. This will help align the jaws better so that the patient has a better bite. It is our desire to obtain the best possible result from the orthodontic treatment, and in order to achieve this result, it is essential that a cooperative relationship exist between Dr. Irvin, the patient, and the patient’s parents. By working together, we really can attain the very best possible smile for each and every patient.

Rapid Palatal Expander or Hyrax

An R.P.E. (Rapid Palatal Expander) is a non-removable appliance designed to widen or expand a patient’s jaw. By widening the jaw, we will be making more room for the remaining permanent teeth and correcting any crossbites that may exist.

Separators/Spacers

Separators, more commonly referred to as “spacers”, may be placed between your teeth so that orthodontic bands may be placed on these teeth at your next visit. A band is like a small ring for your tooth that must be sized specifically for each individual tooth. In order to slide the band over the top of the tooth, a small amount of space is required on each side of the tooth. It is important that the separators stay between your teeth, or we may not be able to comfortably fit the bands at your next appointment.

Invisalign®

Invisalign® is a series of clear, removable teeth aligners that orthodontists use as an alternative to traditional metal dental braces.

• Lingual Arch –A lingual arch is an orthodontic device which connects two molars in the upper or lower dental arch.
• Ligating Module -A small plastic piece, shaped like a donut, which is used to hold the archwires in the brackets on your teeth.
• Removable Retainer –an appliance that Dr. A gives you to wear after your braces are removed. The removable retainers attach to your upper and/or lower teeth and holds them in the correct position until they are stable in their new position. You wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day.
• Separators – Tiny rubber bands or springs that Dr. Irvin places between your back teeth. These separators prepare your mouth for braces by creating a small gap between these teeth. This space allows for the placement of a metal band around your molar, which anchors your braces in your mouth.

How Much Do Braces and Appliances Cost in Greensboro?

Your braces treatment costs will vary, depending on your individual needs and developing an appropriate treatment plan that’s customized to your needs. Our staff will discuss the cost of your treatment and available payment plan options with you. We will work with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget, so you will know what to expect. Our practice also accepts most major credit cards and insurance plans.

If you want to straighten your teeth and are interested in learning more about the different types of appliances, contact Straight A Orthodontics. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to discuss your orthodontic treatment.