To successfully complete your orthodontic treatment plan, patients must work together with the orthodontist. Often the teeth and jaws can only move toward their corrected positions if the patient consistently cooperates with the appliances as prescribed.

The following paragraphs describe the types of appliances that may be used during your treatment.

Elastics (Rubber Bands)
Wearing elastics (rubber bands) improves the bite or how your upper and lower teeth fit together. It is necessary to wear rubber bands as instructed because the rubber bands work far more efficiently if they are worn as prescribed.

Forsus springs
Forsus springs are an alternative to certain types of rubber bands. They are especially useful in cases where a lot of front to back correction is needed. The springs are placed by the orthodontist and removed by the orthodontist - no compliance required!

Palatal Expander
The palatal expander "expands" (widens) your upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on your upper molars each time an adjustment is made. Your orthodontist will instruct you about when and how to adjust your expander. When you achieve the desired expansion, you will wear the appliance for several months to solidify the expansion and to prevent relapse.

Retainers
Retainers may be removable or fixed. They hold your teeth in their new, correct positions after your teeth have been straightened. Your orthodontist will instruct you on how to care for your retainer and about the duration of the wear. Wearing your retainer as directed is crucial to prevent regression of your treatment.
Click here for more information on how to care for your retainer.

Separators (or Spacers)
Separators are little rubber doughnuts that are be placed between your teeth to push them apart so that orthodontic bands are be placed during your next appointment. The separators will be removed before we place the bands. You should avoid sticky foods, toothpicks, and floss after separators are placed.