Oral Appliances - Rochester, NY | Webster, NY
More Than Just Braces
When most people think about orthodontics, metal braces usually come to mind. The reality is Dr. Drabik has many options to help patients achieve and maintain straight teeth and beautiful smiles. These appliances can be used in conjunction with braces, used to correct minor tooth movement and are an integral part of maintaining the position of a patient’s teeth. Could you or your child benefit from any of these? Dr. Drabik can let you know when you come in for an initial consultation for oral appliances in Rochester, NY.
Why Choose Drabik Orthodontics for Retainers & Oral Appliances?
- Designed to maintain treatment results for a lifetime
- Custom-made appliances for every patient
- Used to correct minor tooth movements
Types of Orthodontic Appliances
Removable Retainers
After a patient completes orthodontic treatment, whether it is braces or Invisalign, Dr. Drabik will recommend they wear a retainer to keep their newly aligned teeth in the proper positions. If a patient does not wear a retainer, there is a risk that teeth can start to shift. There are two types of retainers. One has a wire in the front and metal clasps to hold it in place. The other most commonly used is a clear piece of plastic that snaps over the teeth. Each fits snugly against the teeth to keep them in place or to provide minor movements. Retainers are always custom-made to fit each patient’s unique mouth. In most cases, a patient will be asked to wear their retainer all the time immediately following treatment. After a week to a few months, patients can usually switch to just nighttime use.
Fixed Retainers
Fixed retainers are also used to keep teeth in place. A fixed or bonded retainer is a small metal wire placed on the back of the teeth to keep them in place. The advantage to a fixed retainer is, it is not removable. The disadvantage is, it is more difficult to keep your teeth clean. Dr. Drabik is happy to discuss the pros and cons of different options to retain your newly aligned teeth.
Palatal Expander
Palatal expanders are used to widen the roof of the mouth also known as the hard palate. By increasing the width of the upper jaw, space is created so teeth can erupt into a better position and the jaws can function better. These appliances are commonly used to correct a crossbite. Expansion is most often recommended to children because the bones in the upper jaw are easier to manipulate before they fuse together as a child gets older. An expander is used in conjunction with some braces to ensure the success of orthodontic treatment in Webster.
Thumb Crib
Many small children suck their fingers or thumbs to provide a sense of comfort. If these habits continue past the age of four, the development of both the teeth and jaw can be severely affected. Dr. Drabik can help parents by giving them strategies designed to help children break these habits naturally, such as positive reinforcement. For children struggling to stop their habit, a thumb crib can be very useful.
A thumb crib is a small appliance affixed within the mouth that physically prevents a child from sucking their thumb or finger. After a few weeks to months, the child will stop the habit and the appliance will be removed.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Is it time for your child to start orthodontic treatment? Are you ready to correct your crooked teeth? If so, we recommend you schedule a consultation with Dr. Drabik. During this appointment, Dr. Drabik will discuss your available treatment options and let you know which treatment and/or appliances will help you get the best results in the least amount of time. To get started on your road to a beautiful smile, contact us today. We welcome patients of all ages from Gates, Churchville, North Chili, and other nearby communities.