ARCH DEVELOPMENT AND ARCH RETENTION
Narrow arches may lead to malocclusion (crooked teeth) and facial growth issues if not diagnosed and corrected at the right time. The right time usually is during active growth when correction may lead to the dentition "falling into place.”
EXPANDERS
The best natural expander is the tongue and its correct function. If an expansion appliance is needed to correct a crossbite, they are used for a short time to normalize the bite. Once normalized, the appliance is removed, and the tongue takes over.
RETAINERS
Retainers hold a correct functional and dental interrelationship. Retainers are used post orthodontically or in between orthodontic phases. If used between orthodontic phases, they are removed once the next set of treatments starts. If used post orthodontically, to retain the result, the advice from the orthodontic society is to retain for life. Retainers come in a variety of configurations and designs. They can be fixed or be removable. Dr Pasch can advise regarding the type suggested and wear protocol.
