ORTHODONTICS (Cont.)

Distal Jet Space Maintainer: A fixed appliance that moves upper teeth back to correct a Class II bite problem. It replaces the traditional headgear. An appliance may be unilateral (one sided) or bilateral (two sided). the appliance is cemented in place and then adjusted by the orthodontist at specific intervals. the springs on the appliance are used to manipulate the molars into the correct relationship. Once the molars are in position, the braces are put on.

Spacers: Small (metal, plastic or rubber) devises placed between molars one week to two weeks prior to braces being placed. spacers move teeth apart slowly until they are far enough apart to accommodate a band. Spacers may not be necessary if space already exists between molars.

Banding: Process of cementing brackets and fastening arch wires

Deband: Process of removing brackets and arch wires, polishing teeth and taking a retainer impression. Final records are taken at this appointment. Retainers must be placed by the orthodontist within two weeks after debanding.

Limited Orthodontics: Orthodontic treatment of one arch or partial arches.

Full Orthodontics: Orthodontic treatment on both arches.

Records: Impressions, cephalometric (full head) x-ray, panoramic x-ray and photos. Records are taken prior to starting treatment (initial diagnostic records) and when treatment has been completed (final records).

Ortho Adjustment: Review progress, check or replace wire, possibly add elastics or power chain (like a bunch of ligatures tied together).