Exploring the Tools That Shape a Straighter Smile
Orthodontic treatment uses a variety of specialized devices designed to gently guide teeth and jaw development. Each appliance applies controlled pressure over time, encouraging gradual movement and improved alignment for healthier function and appearance.
Orthodontic Devices and How They Help
Elastics (Rubber Bands)
Small but powerful, orthodontic elastics attach to brackets or hooks to apply steady directional force. They help correct bite alignment by guiding upper and lower teeth into better functional positions over time.
Headgear
Headgear is worn outside the mouth and connects to the upper first molar teeth to restrain upper jaw growth and allow the mandible to “catch up”. It’s often recommended to manage significant bite differences during key developmental stages.
Reverse Pull Headgear
Often called a facemask, this appliance encourages forward growth of the upper jaw. It’s typically used in younger patients when the upper jaw sits too far back compared to the lower jaw.
Palatal Expander
A palatal expander widens the upper jaw by expanding the palatal suture. It is indicated when the upper jaw is too narrow to cover the lower jaw, resulting in unilateral or bilateral crossbites. A palatal expander can improve bite balance, create more space to resolve crowding, and may support better airflow through widening of the nasal passages.
Retainers
Retainers keep teeth in their corrected positions after active orthodontic treatment ends. Consistent wear prevents shifting and protects the results achieved through months or years of braces.
Positioners
Tooth positioners are custom-made mouthpieces used after braces to fine-tune alignment. They help settle teeth into ideal positions and can improve the final fit and comfort of the bite.
Separators or Spacers
These small elastic rings are placed between teeth to create space before orthodontic bands are fitted. They ensure appliances sit properly and make placement more comfortable and efficient.
Functional Appliances (Twin Block, Bionator)
Functional appliances guide the lower jaw to grow in a more forward direction, while guiding the teeth to erupt into the correct biting position. Devices like the Twin Block and Bionator, or Mandibular Advancement blocks on clear aligners, encourage healthier jaw positioning, improving bite balance, facial development, and long-term stability.
Keeping Your Orthodontic Devices in Great Shape
Looking after your orthodontic devices helps treatment stay on schedule and prevents unnecessary delays. Avoid hard or sticky foods, clean appliances as directed, and wear them exactly as prescribed. Consistent use allows teeth and jaws to shift properly, supporting steady progress and dependable long-term results.
Our Doctors
Dr. Cheng Lun Wang
Specialty: Certified Specialist in Orthodontics
✓ Practicing since 1994
✓ Part-time clinical instructor at UBC Graduate Orthodontic program
✓ Dr. Wang also provides treatment for head pain and jaw pain
✓ Fluent in Mandarin
Dr. Kevin Lee
Specialty: Certified Specialist in Orthodontics
✓ Practicing since 2015
✓ Dr. Lee also provides treatment for Botox Cosmetic injections and Sleep Apnea oral appliance
✓ Fluent in Mandarin
Dr. Yan Liu
Specialty: Certified Specialist in Orthodontics
✓ Practicing since 2001
✓ Dr. Liu is an associate Professor at Peking University and UBC Graduate Orthodontic program.
✓ Fluent in Mandarin
Dr. Yashodhan Milind Bichu
Specialty: Certified Specialist in Orthodontics
✓ Practicing since 2016
✓ Dr. Yash has worked in Dubai and is experienced in providing lingual braces
✓ Fluent in Hindi/Urdu and conversational in Arabic and Punjabi.
