Enhancing Smiles and Bite Function with Functional Appliances

We are committed to providing you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your orthodontic treatment.

What Are Functional Appliances?
Functional appliances are orthodontic devices designed to correct misaligned bites and improve facial aesthetics. Unlike traditional braces, they are typically removable and work by influencing the growth and development of the jaws. These appliances play a crucial role in aligning the teeth and optimizing bite function.

Why Are Functional Appliances Used?
Functional appliances are employed to address various orthodontic issues, including:
– **Overbites:** For patients with an excessive overbite, functional appliances can help move the lower jaw forward, bringing the upper and lower teeth into proper alignment.

– **Underbites:** In cases of underbites, functional appliances encourage the lower jaw to grow more, allowing it to catch up with the upper jaw.

– **Crossbites:** Functional appliances can also correct crossbites by guiding the upper and lower jaws into their ideal positions.

Types of Functional Appliances
There are different types of functional appliances, including:
– **Herbst Appliance:** A fixed appliance that promotes proper jaw alignment.
– **Twin Block Appliance:** Comprised of two separate parts that work together to align the jaws.

Benefits of Functional Appliances
Functional appliances offer several advantages, including:
– **Improved Bite Function:** They can enhance the way your teeth come together, making eating and speaking more comfortable.

– **Enhanced Facial Aesthetics:** Functional appliances can positively impact the appearance of your face by achieving better harmony between the upper and lower jaws.

– **Minimized Reliance on Surgery:** In some cases, functional appliances can prevent or reduce the need for surgical interventions to improve the jaw position.

How Are Functional Appliances Used?
Angus will assess your unique needs and create a treatment plan that may include the use of functional appliances. The duration of use and specific instructions will vary from patient to patient.

Maintaining Your Progress
To ensure the effectiveness of functional appliances, it’s essential to follow your orthodontist’s guidance on wear and care. Regular check-ups are also crucial to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Conclusion:
Functional appliances are powerful tools in the world of orthodontics, offering transformative results for patients seeking improved bite function and facial aesthetics. If you have any questions about functional appliances or would like to explore how they can benefit your orthodontic journey, please don’t hesitate to contact us at . Our team is here to help you achieve the smile and bite function you deserve.

 

Maintaining your lovely smile 

It’s important to retain that beautiful, confident smile after your orthodontic treatment with Angus. This page is dedicated to helping you understand what orthodontic retainers are, why they matter, and how to care for them.

The British Orthodontic Society has an excellent video to explain why you need to have retainers after orthodontic treatment:

What are Retainers

Orthodontic retainers are custom-made appliances designed to maintain the straightness of your teeth after completing your orthodontic treatment with Damon braces, Spark Aligners or Invisalign. They are typically made from durable materials, like clear plastic or metal wires, and are customised to fit your teeth. Angus will inform you of which versions would be most appropriate for you.

Why is it important to have them after Orthodontic treatment?

1. Stabilising Your Teeth: They help to keep your newly straightened teeth in their corrected positions. Without retainers, your teeth can slowly shift back to their original position.

2. Preventing Relapse: Orthodontic treatment is an investment in improving your smile, and retainers are crucial for preventing relapse. They ensure your smile remains as beautiful as the day your braces came off.

3. Enhancing Comfort: They help stabilise your bite, reducing the risk of any discomfort caused by misaligned teeth.

What are the different trypes?

There are two primary types of orthodontic retainers:
– Fixed Retainers: These are wires glued to the back of your front teeth, providing continuous support.
– Removable Retainers: These can be taken out for cleaning and eating, they are convenient to wear as you only need to wear them whilst you are asleep.

Care tips:

To ensure the effectiveness of your retainers, it’s essential to care for them properly. Here are some tips:
– Cleaning: Regularly clean them to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Please avoid cleaning them with toothpaste or hot water as this can result in damage to the retainer.
– Storing: When not in use, store them in their protective case to avoid damage or loss.
– Follow Instructions: If you have removable retainers, follow Angus’ instructions for wear and maintenance.

How long will you need to wear Retainers?

The duration of retainer wear varies from person to person, but it’s typically recommended for at least a year of night time wear. Afterward, you might transition to alternate night time wear to maintain your results.

How much do they cost?

Your retainers will be included in the cost of your orthodontic treatment with Angus. If you need replacement retainers or if they need to be repaired please click here to find out the cost.

Learn more about Retainers from the British Orthodontic Society

Orthodontic retainers play a vital role in preserving the results of your orthodontic treatment. By understanding their importance and taking proper care of them, you’ll enjoy a confident, beautiful smile for years to come. If you have any questions or need assistance with your retainers, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you every step of the way on your smile journey.

The British Orthodontic Society have an excellent information leaflet to find out more information, click here.

 

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