Removable appliances have several uses. Some are used to hold teeth in their corrected positions, while others are used to influence growth of the jaws, or to effect changes in facial structure. Removable appliances can either be used before, or in conjunction with fixed appliances.
Removable appliances are not utilized to treat all orthodontic problems. It takes skill and experience to recognize conditions that will respond favorably to removable appliances. Timing of such therapy is also very important.
Because removable appliances can easily be taken out by the patient, there may be a tendency to wear them less than we have prescribed. This means your teeth, jaws and muscles may move back toward their original positions or may move slower than expected.
Removable appliances often require a short adjustment period. Although you may initially notice an effect on eating and speaking as well as an increase in the flow of saliva, you will, in time, find the appliance more comfortable and manageable.