At Alamo Ranch Children’s Dentistry & Braces, we offer a range of orthodontic appliances to address various dental needs:

Herbst Appliance

The Herbst appliance is an effective treatment for correcting severe overbites by encouraging the lower jaw to move forward while the upper jaw is guided backward. This fixed appliance consists of metal rods and tubes that connect the upper and lower jaws, gently pushing the lower jaw forward over time. The Herbst appliance is typically used in growing children and adolescents to take advantage of their ongoing jaw development. By correcting jaw alignment early, the Herbst appliance helps to create a balanced bite and reduces the risk of jaw and dental issues in the future, contributing to a more harmonious facial profile.

Headgear

Headgear is an orthodontic appliance used to correct overbites or underbites by applying precise pressure to the upper or lower jaw. It consists of a strap that goes around the head or neck and is attached to the braces or a metal framework inside the mouth. Headgear is typically worn part-time, often during the evening and night, to guide the growth of the jaws and teeth into better alignment. This appliance is particularly useful for correcting severe bite issues that cannot be addressed with braces alone. By guiding the jaws into the correct position, headgear helps to create a more balanced and functional bite.

Palatal Expanders

Palatal expanders are used to widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth to align properly. This appliance is particularly effective for younger patients whose jaws are still growing, as it can gently guide the growth of the jaw bones, ensuring that there is enough room for the permanent teeth to emerge in their correct positions. The expander is attached to the upper molars with metal bands and gradually adjusted to widen the upper jaw over several months. By addressing issues like crossbites early, palatal expanders can prevent more serious dental problems and the need for tooth extractions in the future, setting the stage for a healthier and more aligned smile.

Spacers

Spacers, also known as separators, are small rubber or metal devices placed between the teeth to create space before fitting orthodontic bands or other appliances. Spacers are typically used for a short period, usually about one to two weeks, to gently push the teeth apart and ensure there is enough room for the orthodontic bands. They are essential for ensuring that the bands fit comfortably and securely on the teeth, which is crucial for the effectiveness of the overall orthodontic treatment. By creating the necessary space, spacers help to set the stage for successful orthodontic correction and a healthy, well-aligned smile.

Retainers

Retainers are used to maintain the position of teeth after braces or aligners. They can be removable or fixed and are essential for preventing teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Learn more about our retainer options.