The tools that are used in orthodontics depend on the treatment plan and on the orthodontist’s preferences.
Patients usually encounter a large range of “scary-looking” tools when they go to orthodontic centers. Not knowing what all these strange tools are used for, generates insecurity and patients tend to get nervous.
The commonly used tools in orthodontic treatments are:
- Band Remover: a special plier orthodontists use to remove bands from the teeth
- Explorer: a pointed instrument with a hook-lie end used in examining the teeth
- Distal Cutter: a plier that the orthodontist uses to trim the ends of the archwires
- Interproximal Stripper: a device used to create extra spaces for crowded teeth by removing some of the enamel from the spaces between the teeth
- Twirl On: a device used to help place ligating modules on brackets
- Scaler: a tool with a curved hook on one end used to remove excess cement and check for gaps
- Bite Stick: a device used to help place the bands properly. The orthodontist asks the patient to bite down on the bite stick to help push the band in place
- Cheek Retractors: are small plastic pieces to hold the patient's cheeks and lips out of the way while the orthodontist places the brackets or performs other tasks
- Curing Light: it is a special UV light used to help attach brackets to the teeth. It helps the adhesive bonding to set
- Buccal tube: it is a small metal part welded on the outside of a molar band. It has slots to hold archwires, lip bumpers, facebows and other things your orthodontist uses to move your teeth.
Other instruments are also used when braces are already placed, Generally these instruments are used by the patients to maintain good oral health while wearing braces. These tools include:
- Proxabrush: it is an interdental toothbrush that cleans underneath and around the wires and braces. This brush helps to keep the braces clean while maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
- Dental water jet: it is also called an oral irrigator. It uses a stream of pulsating water to clean the teeth aroung the wires removing plaque and food particles.
- Mouthguard: it is a protective device that covers the teeth and braces. Patients should use a mouthguard when practicing any sport. Other patients may use a mouthguard at night to treat bruxism, which is the involuntary grinding of the teeth during sleep.
These tools used directly by the patients are very important for the success of the treatment. Orthodontists recommend to make use of these instruments for optimal results. However, patients are not required to use exactly these ones, they can use a small brush that allows them to clean their teeth and braces thoroughly. The results can be achieved faster and efficiently if patients have good oral care which includes brushing and flossing their teeth at least twice a day, as well as using a fluoride mouth rinse.
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