Orthodontic Appliances in Austin

Appliances are used during various stages of the orthodontic process, either to retain the new position of teeth, or in some cases to influence the growth of the jaws for a better bite alignment. Appliances may be fixed or removable.

Types of Appliances

Removable Appliances

  • Retainers: Used after braces are removed to hold teeth in their new positions. You must wear your retainer as prescribed to prevent regression of your treatment.
  • Palatal Expander: Designed to widen your upper jaw, a palatal expander applies outward pressure on your upper molars to slowly expand your palate.
  • PowerBar®: Designed to improve molar and canine relationships, uses elastics to achieve the desired movements.

  • Elastics (Rubber Bands): Rubber bands are used with fixed metal braces. They must be worn as prescribed and changed daily per our instructions.

  • Reverse Pull Headgear: For underbite correction, headgear is sometimes used to continuously pull on your upper jaw to help encourage its growth.

Care of Removable Appliances

All orthodontic appliances should be worn as prescribed. They should be brushed at least twice a day, and if removed for eating or sports, they should be placed in their container, never in a pocket or napkin where they may be broken or thrown away.

Pain and Soreness

It is normal for new or recently adjusted appliances to cause soreness or a slight alteration of speech for a few days following your appointment. If you experience a sore spot on the gums, however, please call our office so that we can make an appropriate adjustment.