Bionator Appliance
Functional orthodontic appliances occupy a special niche in dentofacial orthopedics: they don’t just move teeth, they aim to influence the way the jaws grow and the muscles work. Among these devices, the Bionator is one of the best-known and longest-standing. If you’ve been told that you or your child might benefit from a Bionator, or […]
How to Care for Dental Braces and Maintain Oral Hygiene
Orthodontic treatment with dental braces is one of the most effective ways to correct misaligned teeth, bite issues, and jaw irregularities. While braces are highly beneficial in achieving a straight, healthy smile, they also create unique challenges for oral hygiene. The brackets, wires, and elastics can trap food particles and plaque, making it easier for […]
Frankel Appliance: A Guide for Patients, Parents, and Clinicians
If you’ve ever heard an orthodontist mention a “Frankel appliance” or “functional regulator,” they’re referring to a removable device that doesn’t look or work like a typical retainer. Rather than pushing teeth around directly, the Frankel appliance (often abbreviated FR) trains the muscles of the lips and cheeks, reshapes habits, and creates space so jaws […]
Orthodontic Wires: Properties and Types
Orthodontic wires are the active components in fixed orthodontic appliances (braces) that apply forces to teeth, causing them to move into desired positions. The selection of the appropriate wire is a critical decision in orthodontic treatment, as it directly influences the speed, efficiency, and comfort of tooth movement. This overview explores the evolution, properties, and […]
Orthodontic Forces: Mechanisms, Types, and Clinical Applications
Orthodontics, a specialized branch of dentistry, is primarily concerned with diagnosing, preventing, and correcting malpositioned teeth and jaws. One of the core principles underlying successful orthodontic treatment is the application of controlled forces to teeth in order to move them through bone. These forces, known as orthodontic forces, are applied via various appliances and are […]
Anchorage in Orthodontics
Central to the success of any orthodontic treatment is the concept of anchorage, a principle as vital as the mechanics of tooth movement itself. In its simplest form, anchorage refers to resistance against unwanted tooth movement. This principle is as old as orthodontics itself, and over the years, it has evolved through the incorporation of […]