Orthodontic Appliances at Brookhaven Orthodontics
Orthodontic appliances serve important purposes, including starting early treatment and improving overall treatment time, while promoting healthy jaw growth and development. At Brookhaven Orthodontics, Dr. Stan Cox creates personalized treatment plans using various appliances to ensure optimal results.
Expanders (Rapid Palatal Expander)
Expanders are orthodontic appliances that are most commonly used in younger patients. Often, these patients have a very narrow palate (or roof) in the mouth and we need to create more room for either teeth to erupt (come in) or for them to have space to shift. The widening of the upper and lower jaws will help avoid many orthodontic problems like a crossbite, crowding or impacted teeth. Expanders are permanent appliances that stay in the mouth until the orthodontist removes them. The appliance contains a device that widens when turned with a key.
Dr. Cox will give you instructions on how often and how much to turn the key. We will provide you with all materials you will need and will give guardians pointers to help with turning the key. You could feel some discomfort and will need some time to get used to speaking with the device. However, an expander (sometimes called RPE for rapid palatal expander) can improve breathing and even shorten the overall treatment time in braces later on!
- Begin early treatment to avoid a more serious case later on
- Promote correct jaw development
- Allow permanent teeth to come in
- Avoid a crossbite
- Widen the roof of the mouth
- Create space for permanent teeth to come in
- Create space for teeth to shift
- Brush regularly and clean the appliance with your toothbrush
- Use the key to turn the device (Parents/guardians: younger patients may need your help!) Here is a video with instructions.
- Avoid hard and sticky foods
Forsus Springs
A Forsus spring appliance is also usually used with younger patients who are currently in braces (specifically with an overbite) as a way to shorten treatment time. The Forsus moves a patient’s upper molars backward while moving the lower jaw forward. This allows for optimal jaw growth during orthodontic treatment. A Forsus spring is a fixed appliance that attaches to the brackets of braces. It consists is composed of a spring coil rod that connects the upper molar band to the lower arch wire of the braces.
Dr. Cox will monitor the appliance and will remove it once you no longer need it. You may have some initial gum irritation, but you should quickly get used to the addition. Proper growth and shortened treatment time are worth it! No extra effort is needed for the springs to work, but the patient will need to brush consistently and clean the appliance. It is also vital to avoid any foods that could potentially damage the appliance. Our team will give you a list of foods to stay away from.
- Avoid a crossbite
- Shorten overall orthodontic treatment time
- Promote optimal jaw growth
- Moves a patient’s upper molars backward while moving the lower jaw forward
- Corrects the potential for a crossbite
- Brush regularly and clean the appliance with your toothbrush
- Avoid hard and sticky foods
Herbst Appliances
The Herbst appliance is also suggested for younger, growing patients. This appliance is a growth modification so it works best during growth spurts in kids, usually around 9-14 years old. This appliance enhances lower jaw growth and moves the lower jaw forward. This will correct an overbite.
In the past, headgear was used for this same purpose. However, the Herbst is fixed (attached wire to wire) and works around the clock to correct the bite. Since headgear is removable and depends on patient compliance, this option is preferred by Dr. Cox. The smaller size of the Herbst makes it more comfortable and aesthetically appealing for patients.
This appliance will promote growth and movement on its own, but it is important that it is cleaned and that the patient avoids hard and sticky foods to keep it from breaking. Breaking an appliance can actually increase treatment time, so be sure to follow all instructions!
- Correct an overbite
- Shorten overall treatment time
- Smaller size makes it more comfortable and aesthetically appealing
- Enhances lower jaw growth
- Moves the lower jaw forward
- Brush regularly and clean the appliance with your toothbrush
- Avoid hard and sticky foods
We strive to...
Create smiles for our patients visiting from all over Fulton County.
Stay committed to the latest advances in orthodontic technology.
Offer flexible orthodontic schedules to fit your busy lifestyle.
Provide flexible in-office and interest-free payment options.
Insurance & Billing
We understand that orthodontic treatment is an investment, and we are proud to offer flexible in-office and interest-free payment options to fit your specific needs. Learn more about your financial options today.
Why Choose Our Practice
Personalized Care, Every Step of the Way.
At Brookhaven Orthodontics, we believe that every smile is unique. That’s why we create custom treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Our patient-first approach ensures that you feel supported and cared for throughout your orthodontic journey.
Advanced Technology for Better Results.
We combine state-of-the-art technology with proven techniques to deliver exceptional outcomes. From 3D imaging to innovative braces and aligners, our tools are designed to make your treatment faster, more comfortable, and more precise.
Expert Team with Years of Experience.
Led by Dr. Stan Cox, a seasoned orthodontist with a passion for creating beautiful smiles, our compassionate team is dedicated to excellence. With years of experience and continuous training, you can trust us to provide the highest level of care.
Our Satisfied Patients
We love hearing from our patients! Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to provide us with feedback. It means the world to us!