Functional Appliances
FUNCTIONAL APPLIANCES are removable braces that work on the upper and lower teeth at the same time. Worn well they can give dramatic results!
Twin Block appliances
These should be worn for 20-22 hours per day. With the correct number of hours of wear you will soon be aware of the improvements in the position of the teeth. In the early days they may be removed for eating. It is also necessary to remove the appliance during contact sports. The upper and lower appliances must both be worn together at all times. There are sometimes screws in the appliance. Your orthodontist will give you instructions on when and how to turn the screw(s).
Bionator/Frankel appliances
Since these appliances are bulky and speech is more difficult, Bionator and Frankel appliances are worn in the evenings and overnight. These are most commonly used when deciduous (baby) teeth are present.
The first few days are tough with all appliances. Initially saliva flow increases and speech is difficult. It is very important that you wear the appliance as instructed and practice reading out loud concentrating on pronunciation so that the appliance becomes comfortable in the shortest possible time. Intermittent wear will prolong the problems.
If there is an obvious area of soreness being caused by the brace contact the practice for an appointment. You should continue to wear your brace so that the area can be identified.
Care of your brace
The appliances are removed for tooth-brushing. Clean the appliance with your toothbrush carefully.
If appliances are removed for eating or sport they must be placed in suitable container.
If an appliance is lost or broken the Health Board will charge you for the replacement. These appliances are expensive and must be looked after if treatment is to be successful.
This treatment should be completed in 9-12 months. You may then have to wear the appliance overnight or progress to the next phase of treatment.