Orthodontic Appliances – Allen, TX
Specialized Devices for Unique Smiles
It can be easy to assume that orthodontic care only includes two treatments: braces and clear aligners. In reality, the team at Hanson Orthodontics of Allen uses a variety of appliances to help our patients achieve a straighter, healthier, and more beautiful smile. Whether that means creating retainers, thumb cribs, expanders, or other appliances, we tailor each patient’s treatment so the end results are gorgeous and the experience of getting them is comfortable. Would you like to learn more about these specialized orthodontic devices for unique smiles? Call our team to schedule a FREE consultation in our office.
Why Choose Hanson Orthodontics of Allen for Orthodontic Appliances?
- Retainers Designed to Keep Teeth in Place
- Palatal Expanders to Promote Proper Development
- Thumb Cribs for Children with Thumb-Sucking Habits
Why Do We Need Orthodontic Appliances?
Every orthodontic case is unique. The most common orthodontic gear, such as braces, is not always enough to achieve and maintain the desired results. We use specialized orthodontic appliances in Allen to customize each person’s treatment so they can enjoy optimum oral health and a smile that they are proud of. Whether you need a retainer, a palatal expander, or a thumb crib, we are ready and eager to serve you.
Retainers
Following orthodontic treatment, wearing a retainer is crucial to keeping the recently shifted teeth in their new positions. Without a retainer, the teeth can actually begin to drift back to where they were previously. We offer different types of retainers, including both ones that are fixed onto the teeth and ones that can easily be removed.
Palatal Expanders
The roof of a child’s mouth, also known as the hard palate, can be so narrow that it prevents the upper teeth from coming in correctly. This can trigger crowding, resulting in higher costs later. With the help of an expander, our doctors can gradually widen the palate and create more room for teeth as well as a broader, more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Learn More About Palatal Expanders
Thumb Crib
Is your child struggling to stop thumb-sucking? This small appliance can help them break the habit more easily. When worn, it prevents them from experiencing the sucking sensation that they would normally take comfort from when placing their thumb in their mouth. It can thereby prevent the orthodontic issues that may arise later due to prolonged thumb-sucking.
Understanding Cost of Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic appliances can be a crucial part of your treatment (or that of your child). Of course, each item comes with its own cost, which can depend on the type of appliance, the materials used to make it, and other factors. When you visit us for a consultation, we can talk about specific numbers. Our practice offers flexible payment options, and you can be confident that we want the financial aspect of your care to be as low-stress as possible.
Retainer FAQs
How Long Will I Have to Wear My Retainer?
You’ll need to wear your removable retainer full time right after you finish treatment with braces or aligners. This usually means day and night, except when you’re eating or taking care of important oral hygiene tasks. Over these first several months, your teeth are most likely to shift, so this period is crucial for holding your new smile in place. Aim to wear your retainer for 20 – 22 hours each day.
After the initial phase, you may be able to switch to nighttime wear for as long as you want to maintain your results. Eventually, you might need to wear your retainer for just a few nights each week. If it ever starts to feel unusually tight, that indicates you are not wearing it enough.
How Often Will I Need to Replace My Retainer?
Removable retainers like Hawley devices, anterior biteplates, posterior occlusal coverage, and full plastic aligners can last for years with proper care. However, you might need a replacement if your retainer becomes cracked, warped, or doesn’t fit as well as it used to.
We recommend checking your retainer regularly for signs of damage or changes in fit. If you notice any issues, reach out to our office. At Dr. Hanson’s practice, we’ll help you decide if a replacement is needed and get you a new retainer quickly so your smile stays on track.
Can I Eat While Wearing My Retainer?
You should always remove your retainer before eating or drinking anything besides water. Eating with your removable retainer in place can cause it to crack, bend, or become covered in food particles, which can lead to discomfort and bad odors. Certain foods, especially sticky or hard ones, can damage your retainer or affect its fit.
What Should I Do if My Retainer Gets Damaged or Lost?
If your retainer is damaged or lost, don’t panic. The first step is to contact us right away so we can help you prevent your teeth from moving out of place. Depending on the details of the situation, there are a few recommendations that we might make.
For example, our Allen team may advise you to keep wearing your retainer if it’s only slightly damaged and still fits, but you should avoid using it if there are sharp edges or it doesn’t feel right.
If your retainer is completely lost, our team will work to get a replacement for you as soon as possible.
If I Grind My Teeth, How Will That Affect My Retainer?
Teeth grinding could damage your retainer, so if you tend to grind while you are awake, you should consciously work to quit. Many people find that a stress ball, fidget toys, or breathing exercises can help them manage stress and release jaw tension.
If you tend to grind at night, you may need a custom nightguard that is also designed to act as a retainer. These are thicker than regular retainers and can to prevent dental shifting while also placing a protective barrier between your teeth.