Orthodontic treatment often involves the use of various devices to correct and enhance dental alignment and bite issues. At Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we offer a range of orthodontic devices to meet the specific needs of our patients. Whether it’s maintaining space for permanent teeth, expanding the palate, or ensuring the stability of your new smile, our experienced team in San Antonio is dedicated to providing comprehensive orthodontic care.

Fixed Space Maintainers

Fixed space maintainers are custom-made devices used to hold space for a permanent tooth when a baby tooth is lost prematurely. They are typically cemented onto adjacent teeth to keep the space open and guide the proper eruption of the permanent tooth.

• Benefits: Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting, ensuring proper alignment and spacing for permanent teeth.
• Usage: Commonly used in children who lose baby teeth early.

Removable Space Maintainers

Removable space maintainers function similarly to fixed ones but can be taken out for cleaning and eating. These are typically used in older children who are responsible enough to manage a removable device.

• Benefits: Provides flexibility for eating and cleaning while maintaining necessary space for permanent teeth.
• Usage: Suitable for children and teens who can handle removable appliances responsibly.

Palate Expanders

Palate expanders are devices used to widen the upper jaw to create more space for teeth and improve bite alignment. This device gradually expands the palate by applying gentle pressure over time.

• Benefits: Corrects crossbites, creates space for crowded teeth, and improves overall bite alignment.
• Usage: Often used in children and pre-teens to take advantage of natural growth processes.

Herbst Appliances

The Herbst appliance is used to correct jaw alignment, specifically in cases where the lower jaw is underdeveloped. This device helps to move the lower jaw forward, aligning it properly with the upper jaw.

• Benefits: Improves bite alignment, enhances facial symmetry, and corrects jaw discrepancies.
• Usage: Typically used in growing children and teens to guide proper jaw development.

Clear Retainers

Clear retainers are custom-made, transparent devices that help maintain the position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. They are nearly invisible, making them an aesthetically pleasing option for maintaining your new smile.

• Benefits: Maintains tooth alignment discreetly, easy to clean and wear.
• Usage: Worn after braces or Invisalign treatment to prevent teeth from shifting.

Hawley Retainers

Hawley retainers are traditional, removable retainers made from a combination of metal wires and acrylic. They are durable and adjustable, allowing for minor adjustments to tooth alignment if needed.

• Benefits: Durable and adjustable, provides long-term retention of tooth alignment.
• Usage: Typically worn after braces to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment.

Retainer Repair

Retainers can sometimes become damaged or need adjustments over time. Our retainer repair services ensure that your retainer continues to function effectively and maintain your dental alignment.

• Benefits: Extends the life of your retainer, ensures continued effectiveness in maintaining tooth alignment.
• Usage: Available for both clear and Hawley retainers.

Comprehensive Orthodontic Care

At Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are committed to providing comprehensive orthodontic care tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. Our range of orthodontic devices helps ensure that we can address a variety of dental and jaw alignment issues effectively and efficiently.

Schedule a Consultation in San Antonio

Explore the benefits of our orthodontic devices and how they can help you or your child achieve optimal dental health. Contact Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is here to provide expert care and support throughout your orthodontic journey, ensuring a healthy, beautiful smile for life.