Treatment Appliances

AdvanSync is a “fixed” or “placed” appliance used in adolescents that have a small or posteriorly positioned lower jaw.  The appliance is used to move the lower jaw forward during adolescent growth while simultaneously allowing the use of braces to move teeth shortening the overall time in treatment.

Unlike headgear, AdvanSync is hidden inside the back of the mouth and is virtually unnoticeable.  Unlike similar appliances (like the Herbst), AdvanSync is half the size for maximum patient comfort and range of motion.  It can be seen when a patient opens their mouth wide, but it does not come out of the mouth.  In many patients, AdvanSync immediately improves their appearance from a profile (side) view, in that it moves the lower jaw (and therefore the chin) forward.

In general, orthodontic appliances with external parts braced by the head, neck, or chin are referred to as a “face mask.” These devices may be used to handle a number of particular orthodontic situations, however, all have one thing in common: They provide the additional anchorage needed to move teeth into better positions.

Some types of face masks have a strap that goes behind the head or neck; they use the entire head as an anchorage. Other types, called “reverse pull” face masks, have a strap that comes over the chin or the forehead; they can pull teeth forward. Face masks can even influence the proper growth of facial structures — that’s why it is usually seen on preteens, whose growth isn’t yet complete.

A Wilson Arch is an appliance that moves the upper molars back without changing the position of the front teeth. This is accomplished by Dr. Pools’ regular adjustments as well as diligent elastic wear by the patients. The Wilson Arch is usually worn in tandem with a holding arch on the lower teeth, and after adjustments, the patients’ teeth may feel a little sore for a few days. This is normal.

A Herbst is a “fixed” appliance used to reposition the upper and lower jaws. It uses the rear molars as “anchors” to either push or pull the teeth and jaw bones into their proper place. When anchorage inside the mouth is sufficient to get the desired results, the Herbst is often used in place of headgear.