Purpose:

The appliance you have received today is designed to correct or hold the lower large back molar teeth in the correct position. We want to do this for one or more of the following reasons:

1. We need to create more space to fit in crowded teeth.
2. We need to have the molars fitting well with the upper molars.
3. It is important to set up the back teeth for anchors.
4. We need to have the molars in the correct position in relation to the bone in which they are sitting.
5. We want to have the lower teeth expanded correctly to match the upper expansion achieved with the top expander.

Where is it located:

The lip bumper sits close to the lower teeth inside the lip and cheeks. It slides into the tubes attached to the bands on the back molar teeth. Frequently, we add an elastic or wire 'holder' to maintain the lip bumper in the correct position. If the ‘holders’ break or become loose, it is not a very big problem, call the office to let us know and we will schedule an appointment.

Care:

This appliance is usually forgotten in the brushing process (how sad), but now that you know about it, turn the toothbrush into the wire and brush it well. Please remember to brush under the tubes near the gums.

Adjustment to the appliance:

This appliance feels 'tight' in the beginning and time (usually 2-3 days) is the best helper! Sometimes Tylenol or aspirin or Advil is necessary. Rarely you may need the more powerful medicine we gave you. Sometimes the lip or cheek is irritated (scraped) - use wax where it is irritated. Sometimes there is an imprint of the wire on the lip or cheek - this is ok and will go away when we take the appliance off. Be sure to tell us if it is uncomfortable after the adjustment phase. We can correct an irritation.

Effects of the Appliance:

Most often, the appliance will not appear to be "doing" anything. This is a slow working piece. Eventually, there will be uncrowding of the lower front teeth. Most often, we see spacing on the bottom near the molars. It will take several months to happen.