TYPE OF BRACES
Metal Braces
At Prestige, Dr Chay uses the self-ligating system SWLF Synergy R from Rocky Mountain Orthodontics, USA. SWLF Synergy R™ provides many advantages over other self-ligating brackets (eg. Damon) currently on the market:
Clear Ceramic Braces
Clarity Ultra braces are translucent, so they are less visible than metal braces and they are the coolest looking braces you’ll find anywhere. Clarity Ultra Bracket System is from 3M Unitek (USA) Advantages of Clarity Ultra Braces:
Dr Chay creatively utilizes the Synergy R mechanism by replacing the front braces with traditional ligating brackets so as to get the same advantage for patients who are relocating in the midst of their treatment.
Clear Aligner
Clear Aligner is custom-made and digitally crafted aligner that promises outstanding results by straightening teeth comfortably. There are many brands in the market such as Reveal, Angel Smile, Invisalign, etc.
FUNCTIONAL APPLIANCES
Functional appliances help correct the bone problems, while the tooth problems are corrected with the orthodontic braces. The ideal age for the use of functional appliances is during the pubertal spurt which ranges from age 10 to 14, when the cooperation level is the highest. The functional appliances used in our clinic are the Twin Blocks (removable appliances) and Herbst appliance (fixed appliances).
Twin Blocks
This functional appliance consists of two removable bite blocks, upper and lower. Twin Blocks™ improve the way your teeth bite together by bringing the recessive lower jaw forward.
Every time you move your jaw you activate the appliance (forces you to close in a protruded position). It also retrains the jaw muscles to function with the lower jaw forward.
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Herbst Appliance
The Herbst appliance is similar to the Twin Blocks appliances in enchancing the forward movement of a recessive lower jaw. However, Herbst appliance is cemented on the back molars and is in place actively 24 hours a day.
ORTHODONTIC HEADGEAR
Headgear is an orthodontic appliance used to correct bite and support proper upper jaw alignment and growth. There are several types. Headgear is typically recommended for children whose upper jaw bones are still growing. Unlike functional appliances, headgear is worn partially outside of the mouth.
Reverse Headgear
Reverse headgear is used to correct an underdeveloped upper jaw or an underbite. An underbite is categorized by jutting lower teeth which extend past the upper teeth. The device consists of a metal bar attached to pads on the forehead and chin with rubber bands hooked to it and the upper cemented splint to gradually move the upper jaw forward.
Patient compliance is extremely important as the face mask must be worn a set number of hours per day or more to obtain the desired results. It is only suitable for children below the age of 9 as the upper jaw is still growing.
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