Did you know that there are numerous options available to straighten crooked teeth, and not just metal braces? Yes, that is correct! Modern dentistry now offers a variety of options, including tooth-coloured ceramic and lingual fixed braces and Invisalign clear aligners. But, more importantly, there are other appliances called functional appliances that perform the same function. However, instead of applying force on the teeth to move them – as in the case of braces and aligners – functional appliances utilise one’s growth spurt during the pubertal age to redirect jaw growth and ensure optimal tooth alignment. One such appliance is the twin block appliance.
But what is the utility of a twin-block appliance, and is it better than braces? You may ask yourself. The answer to this question, and many others, is given in this blog. So, continue reading to learn everything you need to know about twin-block appliances.
What Are Twin Block Aligners?
According to the manufacturers of this appliance, a twin-block aligner is a device that consist of bite blocks designed for full-time wear. The device utilises one’s biting and chewing forces to redirect the movement of the teeth in optimal occlusion and alignment. So unlike braces and clear aligners, twin blocks use the body’s indigenous forces to realign the teeth.
How To Eat With Twin Block?
Twin-block aligners are designed to facilitate ease of eating and speaking. For example, you may eat soft foods and enjoy drinks while wearing these aligners. However, you must rinse them afterwards to prevent bacterial growth. Similarly, if you wish to eat hard or sticky foods, remove your twin-block aligners and put them back on later. Again, one must be very careful about ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of this appliance, as failure to do so may result in complications such as delayed treatment, periodontal disease, and tooth decay.
Can You Chew Gum With Braces?
Yes, one can enjoy chewing gum while wearing certain braces. For example, you may chew gum if you’re wearing fixed braces. However, your dentist may not allow you to eat gum with other orthodontic appliances. So, it is advisable to consult your dentist to be on the safe side. More importantly, one must only chew sugar-free gum approved by your local dental regulatory council. This is because chewing sugar-containing gums may cause tooth decay.
How To Cope With Twin Block Braces?
Orthodontic patients often feel that wearing braces or other appliances may be a challenging experience for them. However, this is not the case. While one may experience slight discomfort during the treatment, orthodontic appliances are designed to maximise patient comfort and convenience.
Can Braces Fix A Weak Jaw Caused By An Overbite?
An overbite puts excessive pressure on the jaw joints causing various complications such as clicking or popping sounds, difficult or painful mouth opening, and even jaw dislocation or fracture. Dental braces can indirectly help in healing jaw joint issues. For example, when the braces align the teeth optimally, there will be lesser load on the jaw joints. This will help improve one’s chewing and speech efficiency but will also help reduce stress on the temporomandibular joints and promote the healing process.
How Can I Move My Lower Jaw Forward Without Surgery?
Many people think that surgery is the only option to bring the lower jaw forward. However, the fact is that various other options allow one to move their lower jaw ahead of their upper one without any surgical intervention. For example, there are multiple exercises one can do to ensure the optimal positioning of the lower jaw for youthful and attractive looks. However, these exercises must be done at a young age when the bones are flexible and can be realigned easily. Besides, various functional appliances are available that utilise one’s rapid body growth and development during the pubertal period to redirect jawbone growth. Again, functional appliances are effective during puberty. Your dentist will suggest the best option for your treatment after a thorough clinical examination.
Is It Possible To Push Back the Front Two Teeth Only?
Thanks to contemporary orthodontics, any type of tooth movement is now possible, no matter how complex. For example, if your dentist wants to push back your front two teeth only, they can do it with removable or fixed orthodontic appliances. However, the choice of a suitable appliance depends on the severity of the issue and the extent to which the front teeth need to be pushed backwards.
What Are Bite Blocks?
In most cases, straightening of crooked teeth can be accomplished with metal braces or clear aligners alone. However, there are certain cases when additional appliances are needed for treatment completion. For example, when one has orthodontic issues such as an overbite or deep bite, there are chances that one will close their mouth, and the upper teeth may come in contact with the opposite jaw’s braces and dislodge them. Hence, in these cases, dentists create space between the upper and lower teeth, so that tooth movement can progress uninterrupted. Such appliances are called bite blocks. According to Healthline, a bite block is a tiny device attached to your front or back teeth to prevent them from coming in contact when the mouth is closed. Bite blocks are made of metal, glass ionomer cements, and polymer resins, and come in different colours.
Are you searching for orthodontic treatment options other than braces and clear aligners? You have come to the right place. Cleveland Orthodontics offers contemporary treatment options to suit your lifestyle and dental needs. So, contact us today to find out more about our wide range of orthodontic treatment services. We look forwards to seeing you.
