Removable Appliances

Unlike conventional braces, which are attached to the teeth, removable appliances are less permanent, and are used to influence the position of the teeth, as well as the growth of the jaw. This can help influence changes in facial structure, and may be used in tandem with fixed dental appliances.

Not all orthodontic issues can be fixed using removable appliances. It takes a skilled orthodontist to determine what conditions can be best treated using a removable appliance. They also must take into consideration the timing of their treatments as well.

Removable appliances are less permanent than fixed appliances, meaning the patient can remove them themselves. This can lead to issues with the patient wearing them, making the treatment less effective and allowing the teeth and muscles to move back to their original, misaligned position.

Removable appliances require specialized care, as well, such as careful cleaning and making sure not to misplace or misuse them. In some cases, removable appliances may affect speaking and eating, as well as increasing the production of saliva, although this should go away after a few days as your body adjusts to the new appliance.