Removable orthodontic appliances

Removable appliances can be removed as needed by the patient without the input of the orthodontist. These orthodontic devices are indicated to address several types of dental and skeletal anomalies in growing children.

Types of removable appliances

Orthodontic acrylate plates

Acrylate plates are custom-made devices, made in the dental laboratory, on conventional or digital models. They consist of an acrylic base, anchorage elements and various springs and screws. Activation of the screw is done by the parent, using the special key, at a time specified by the orthodontist. It is used for children with mixed dentition (who have both temporary and permanent teeth on their arches). Permanent wear is recommended, with removal only for oral hygiene and appliance purposes.

Functional dental appliances

Functional orthodontic appliances act on muscle activity by modifying it to achieve a therapeutic effect. Muscle force can be inhibited or amplified and directed to areas of the dento-maxillary apparatus (temporomandibular joint, maxillary, dento-alveolar processes) with the effect of simulating or remodelling them.

Functions of removable appliances:

• Aligns teeth through limited tooth movement.
• Guides tooth eruption.
• Orthopaedic effect, guiding bone growth by stimulation / inhibition.
• Corrects speech, swallowing and incorrect tongue position.
• Eliminates vicious habits.

Types of functional orthodontic appliances:

• Frankel
• Balters
• Activator
• Trainer system
• Myobrace system
• Twin-Block.