Fixed Orthodontic Appliances

24/7 Effectiveness: Fixed Orthodontic Appliances

In some clinical situations, to achieve the ideal result, we need constant, continuous force. Fixed orthodontic appliances are a category of highly effective devices that are fixed in the mouth for a specific period and work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their main advantage is a result that does not depend on the patient's discipline and cooperation.

What problems do fixed appliances solve?

These appliances are typically used in the first, orthopedic stage of treatment to solve fundamental problems that regular braces cannot handle:

• Upper Jaw Expansion: Appliances like Hyrax (palatal expander) are used to create space in cases of severe crowding.

• Lower Jaw Growth Stimulation: Appliances like Herbst correct a distal bite in adolescents by guiding jaw growth.

• Molar Distalization: Special devices are used to move the back teeth backward to create space in the dental arch.

What is their main advantage over removable ones?

Removable plates are effective only when the patient (especially a child) wears them for the required number of hours. A fixed appliance eliminates the human factor. It works constantly, which guarantees the achievement of the planned result within a clearly defined timeframe. This is the choice for those who need maximum predictability.

How does the treatment proceed and how long does it last?

A fixed appliance is installed at the first stage of treatment, often before or together with braces. The average duration of wearing it to solve a specific problem is 6 to 12 months. After the goal is achieved, the appliance is removed, and we continue the treatment with braces or aligners, aligning the teeth on the created "foundation."