Braces
Fixed metal or ceramic brackets and wires that move teeth into alignment, adjusted every four to eight weeks. Treatment commonly takes 18 to 30 months.
Orthodontic and Functional Devices
Medically reviewed by Dr Matthew Sng ·
Appliances that guide tooth position and jaw growth — expanders, functional appliances, space maintainers and habit-breaking devices — often used in children before or alongside braces.
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Types of appliance
Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) are small screws placed in the jawbone to provide a fixed point for controlled tooth movement.
Functional appliances guide the relationship between the jaws during growth. They may be fixed or removable.
Space maintainers hold a gap after a baby tooth is lost early. Expanders may be used to widen a narrow upper jaw.
Your dentist assesses growth, tooth position and bite before recommending an appliance. The wear schedule, follow-up visits and cleaning instructions depend on the device.
Who it's for
Often children and teenagers who need to guide tooth position or jaw growth — with expanders, functional appliances, space maintainers or habit-breaking devices — used before or alongside braces. An assessment and records decide which appliance fits the case.
Time and visits
Varies with the appliance and goal — from several months to a couple of years — with regular review and adjustment visits.
Recovery and aftercare
Appliances feel unfamiliar for the first days and can affect speech and eating briefly while the mouth adapts. Tenderness after fitting or adjustment eases with soft foods.
Risks and considerations
Appliances make cleaning harder, so good brushing matters to avoid decay and gum problems. Results depend on wearing the appliance as directed, and some discomfort or speech changes are usual early on.
Common questions
Can I eat normally with orthodontic devices?
While some dietary restrictions may apply, most individuals can still eat a wide variety of foods with orthodontic devices. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods should be avoided to prevent damage to the braces or aligners.
Can orthodontic devices affect speech?
It is common to experience minor speech changes or adjustments when wearing orthodontic devices initially. However, most people adapt quickly, and speech typically returns to normal within a short period.
What is an orthodontic device?
An orthodontic device is a dental appliance used to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. Examples include traditional braces, clear aligners, expanders, retainers, and headgear.
How do orthodontic devices work?
Orthodontic devices work by applying gentle, controlled forces to the teeth and jaws, gradually moving them into proper alignment. Braces use brackets and wires, while aligners use a series of clear, removable trays.
Can I play sports or musical instruments with orthodontic devices?
Yes, you can still participate in sports and play musical instruments with orthodontic devices. It is recommended to wear a mouthguard during contact sports and to take special care when playing certain instruments.
Invisalign
Removable clear aligners that move teeth over a planned course of treatment. Your dentist assesses your teeth and bite before recommending a plan.
Mouthguards
Custom-fitted guards made from impressions of your teeth: sports mouthguards protect against impact, while night guards protect against grinding (bruxism) during sleep.
Obstructive sleep apnoea
Custom-made oral appliances that hold the lower jaw forward during sleep to keep the airway open — an option for snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea.
Retainers
Custom appliances worn after braces or aligner treatment to hold teeth in their corrected positions — removable clear or Hawley retainers, or a fixed wire behind the teeth.
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Children’s dentistry
Check-ups, preventive care and treatment for infants, children and teens, paced to each child’s needs.