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Spotlight on Orthodontic Appliances

  • Larson Orthodontics
  • April 18, 2025

When people think of orthodontics, they usually picture braces or clear aligners—but the truth is, there are many different appliances designed to correct specific issues with the teeth and jaws. Whether you’re starting treatment for yourself or your child, understanding how these tools work can help you feel more confident every step of the way.

At Larson Orthodontics, we use a range of advanced orthodontic appliances to guide teeth into proper alignment, correct jaw imbalances, and create healthy, functional bites. In this blog, we’ll shine a light on the most common appliances used in treatment, what they do, and how they support long-term results.

What Are Orthodontic Appliances?

Orthodontic appliances are devices designed to move teeth, influence jaw growth, or maintain results after treatment. Some are fixed (attached to the teeth), while others are removable. Your orthodontist will recommend specific appliances based on your diagnosis, age, and treatment goals.

Common Orthodontic Appliances We Use at Larson Orthodontics

1. Braces (Traditional Metal or Clear Braces)

What They Do:
Braces use brackets, wires, and gentle pressure to move teeth into their ideal positions over time.

Who They’re For:
Patients of all ages—great for correcting crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and more.

What to Expect:
Adjustments every few weeks, improved alignment in 12–24 months for most cases, and the option for tooth-colored brackets for a more discreet look.

2. Invisalign Clear Aligners

What They Do:
Invisalign clear aligners are a series of custom-made, removable trays that gradually shift teeth into place.

Who They’re For:
Teens and adults looking for a discreet, flexible treatment option—best for mild to moderate cases.

What to Expect:
Aligners are worn 20–22 hours per day and changed every 1–2 weeks. You’ll remove them to eat, drink, and clean your teeth.

3. Palatal Expander

What It Does:
A palatal expander is a device used to widen the upper jaw, typically in children or teens whose jaws are still developing.

Who It’s For:
Younger patients with crossbites, narrow arches, or crowding.

What to Expect:
The appliance is bonded to the upper molars and gently expanded daily. Treatment typically lasts a few months and creates room for permanent teeth to erupt properly.

4. Retainers (Removable and Fixed)

What They Do:
Retainers hold teeth in their corrected positions after braces or Invisalign.

Who They’re For:
Everyone who completes orthodontic treatment—retainers are essential for maintaining your results.

What to Expect:
Depending on your treatment plan, you may wear your retainer full-time at first, then transition to nighttime wear. Fixed retainers are bonded behind the teeth for worry-free retention.

5. Elastics (Rubber Bands)

What They Do:
Used with braces or aligners to correct jaw alignment by applying pressure between the upper and lower teeth.

Who They’re For:
Patients with overbites, underbites, or other bite issues.

What to Expect:
Elastics are worn as instructed (often 24/7 except when eating or brushing). Consistency is key to staying on track with treatment.

How We Choose the Right Appliance for You

At Larson Orthodontics, every treatment plan is customized based on a thorough diagnostic process. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate:

  • Your bite alignment
  • Jaw development
  • Tooth spacing or crowding
  • Age and growth stage
  • Lifestyle and treatment preferences

From there, we’ll recommend the appliances best suited to your goals—whether it’s traditional braces with elastics or clear aligners supported by minor auxiliary devices.

Life with Orthodontic Appliances: What to Expect

No matter which appliance you’re using, our team will make sure you know exactly how to care for it and what to expect. We’ll guide you through:

  • Cleaning and maintenance
  • Diet recommendations (especially with fixed appliances)
  • What’s normal and when to call us
  • Tips to stay comfortable and on track

Orthodontic appliances may take a little getting used to, but they’re powerful tools that help create long-term health and confidence.

Let’s Find the Right Solution for Your Smile

Orthodontic appliances are more advanced, comfortable, and customizable than ever before—and at Larson Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer the latest options for every age and smile.

Curious about which appliance is right for you or your child?
Schedule a free consultation and let’s build a personalized plan to create your healthiest, happiest smile.

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The first step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile is to request a free orthodontic consultation with our team.

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free orthodontic consultation in Riverside

request an appointment

Get Started Today

The first step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile is to request a free orthodontic consultation with our team.

Request Free Consult
free orthodontic consultation in Riverside
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Check out what our patients are saying about their experience with us! If you’ve always longed for a healthy, beautiful smile, we’d love to make your dream come true, too!
Great service, started Invisalign treatment with Larson Orthodontics a few months back and I couldn’t be happier. The staff is incredibly helpful during check ups, and it’s incredibly easy... to set up future appointments with them. Dr. Hadid is also extremely nice, and explains everything regarding questions about the treatment process!read more
Mauricio C.
I am on my 3rd month of treatment and I have received really great results, help, and support. Larson Orthodontist on Riverside is very clean and organized. They have very convenient... appointments times that is not too far apart. The timeframe to do a consultation and get braces only took two weeks.This was really great because most places take extremely long for the next available appointment. The workers are very kind, nice, and are really gentle with their work. I am glad I came to this place because they make you feel really welcomed and I trust they will take care of my teeth well.read more
Zahra S.
Larson always greets their clients with smiles and they are always polite.
Michelle S.
Excited because my braces are off and then they gave me this goodie bag 🤩 You guys are truly the best ! Thank you :)
Moni
I love this orthodontic. They are so nice, and they do a great job on my braces.
James
If I could rate it more than a five I would. This office is super nice, with the most efficient dentist I’ve ever been to, hands down! My kiddos have always been scared of going to the... dentist but the staff is just the best, friendly and super welcoming. They explained everything step by step and always make my kiddos feel comfortable and safe, they really love it here. Highly recommend!!!read more
Susiie M.
Very friendly environment all the staff is polite and greet customers. I did not have to wait long before I was seen. Dr. Larson is very honest and answered all of my questions and... concerns. I would recommend anyone interested in braces or Invisalign to Dr. Larson’s office.read more
Porsha M.
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Come by one of our locations and get started today! We look forward to meeting you and your family. It’ll be our pleasure to help you achieve a confident, beautiful smile — one you’ll love for a lifetime!

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Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm

Corona

Riverside

Our locations

come visit us

Come by one of our locations and get started today! We look forward to meeting you and your family. It’ll be our pleasure to help you achieve a confident, beautiful smile — one you’ll love for a lifetime!

Locations
  • Riverside
  • 6886 Indiana Ave. Suite A
    Riverside, CA 92506
  • Corona
  • 580 N. Main St.
    Corona, CA 92880
Phone
  • (951) 686-6410
Office Hours
Monday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday 7:00am – 4:00pm
Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm
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