Correcting Jaw Alignment With Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic care at Mack Orthodontics is more than straightening teeth—it also helps align the jaws for better function, comfort, and long-term oral health. Dr. Kervin Mack may recommend a specialized appliance to gently and efficiently guide the jaw into a healthier position, helping you or your child get a balanced, stable smile.
Types of Orthodontic Appliances
Forsus, Herbst, and CS springs serve a similar purpose to braces: correcting overbites by encouraging forward growth of the lower jaw or limiting upper jaw movement.
Dr. Mack typically uses these appliances during braces treatment, and they are not removable, which means they work continuously without requiring patient compliance, unlike elastics.
Forsus Appliance
The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device is a small, spring-loaded rod attached to the braces. It connects the upper and lower jaws and applies gentle, continuous pressure to reposition the lower jaw forward. It’s often used for teens during active braces treatment.
Herbst Appliance
The Herbst appliance uses metal rods and tubes to hold the lower jaw forward. It’s usually attached to bands on the molars and is worn for several months. Because it’s fixed in place, it works continuously and doesn’t require the patient to remember to wear anything extra.
CS Springs
CS (Carriere Motion) Springs are small, flexible springs added to the braces or aligner system to assist with jaw correction. They apply light force and are especially useful in patients who need a little extra push to bring the lower jaw forward without more invasive options.
All of these appliances are placed in our Burlington or Hillsborough office and designed to integrate seamlessly into your orthodontic plan.
When We Use Additional Appliances
Dr. Mack typically recommends these appliances for patients with:
- Overbites (where the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth)
- Class II malocclusions, a common jaw imbalance
- Lower jaws that are developing more slowly than the upper jaw
- Bite issues that can’t be corrected with braces alone
Benefits of Orthodontic Appliances
While it might take a few days to adjust, most patients adapt quickly and continue with their normal routines. Dr. Mack and our team will provide detailed care instructions and support along the way. Additional benefits include:
- Continuous correction—no need to remember rubber bands
- Faster progress in jaw alignment compared to traditional methods
- May reduce overall treatment time
- Can prevent the need for more complex procedures later on
- Helps create a stable bite, improving long-term oral health
Schedule a Free Consultation
At Mack Orthodontics, we’ll make sure you understand how your appliance works, how to care for it, and what to expect during treatment. Call our Burlington or Hillsborough office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kervin Mack and take the next step toward a healthier, more balanced smile.
Posted by Mack Orthodontics
