Plates and functional appliances
Functional appliances are devices used to correct a significant tension and tightness in the relationship between the upper and lower jaws. The most common use of a functional appliance is to encourage the forward growth of a retrusive or under-developed lower jaw. The functional appliance holds the lower jaw forward over a period of time, until the teeth, jaws, and joints have “adapted” and the desired jaw position has been achieved.
Twin Block
This is a removable, orthodontic functional appliance that is used to help correct jaw alignment, particularly an underdeveloped lower jaw. The Twin Block appliance is made up of two plates, one for the upper teeth and one for the lower teeth, which work together to bring the lower jaw forward into a better alignment with the upper jaw and creating a improved profile.
Quad Helix
This orthodontic appliance helps to establish normal function and arch form by expanding the dental arches. It works by gently pushing the teeth outwards to eventually widen the upper arch. A quad helix expander is usually recommended to people who have a narrow top jaw, a cross bite, or crowded teeth.
Palatal Expander
This orthodontic appliance may be fixed or removable. It fits in the roof of your mouth to spread your upper jaw apart. Hyrax is another form of fixed expander.
