Appliances

Removable Appliances

Unlike conventional braces, removable appliances are used to retain teeth in their corrected positions and in some cases, to influence growth of the jaws in order to affect changes in facial structure. In addition, they are often used before and in conjunction with fixed appliances.

Removable appliances are not utilized to treat all orthodontic problems. It takes skill and experience to recognize conditions that will respond favorably to removable appliances. Timing of such therapy also is very important.

Although removable appliances can be taken out easily by the patient, there may be a tendency to not wear them as prescribed. This means your teeth, jaws, and muscles may move back toward their original positions.

Removable appliances require care. Although you may notice an effect on eating, speaking, and an increase in the flow of saliva, you will eventually adjust to the appliance.