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Spotlight on Orthodontic Appliances

  • Larson Orthodontics
  • April 18, 2025
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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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!
Jeanine
Staff are amazing. The process and steps they take to give the best care and outcome are just above and beyond any other place we been to so happy we found them ❣️
Leticia G.
Very friendly and helpful staff. Everyone was very professional and made me and my daughter feel at ease with the process. The facility was very clean and welcoming.
Kristine C.
We recently started our ortho treatment and we're doing well. The staff was friendly, informative, and not pushy at all. They made it very easy for us to ask questions and take the time we needed to decide. They explained the process, what to expect and the whole financial part. Thank you Larson Ortho for having such great staff!
iris S.
This is my 3rd daughter getting braces from Larson and her 2nd phase. I would recommend Larson he is great and always a great experience.
Antwoine T.
Dr. Larson, and his team are great. I was provided with great service at every appointment. Dr. Larson is very knowledgeable and friendly. I highly recommend this orthodontist. It’s been over a year since I’ve had my braces removed, and I haven’t had any problems. I love my teeth, and smile! 😀 🦷
Nikki S.
Absolutely amazing orthodontist! My son has horrible dental anxiety and they were amazing with him ! Super fast and he even got treatment done the same day as his Consultation.
Sandi S.
Dr. Larson and his team are great!! My kids and I all go here and we love it. They are fast, efficient, and so friendly. They have a big beautiful office. There are always fun movies playing to keep the kids relaxed during visits. Parents are welcome to sit in the back with the kids during their appointments. They always explain everything they are doing and teach us how to properly care for our braces and Invisalign. :)
Julie S.
Best orthodontists ever! Noticed my son had teeth that weren’t coming down and they got me in right away. I’m so impressed with their kindness and service and so grateful!
Heather C.
We are so grateful for Larson Orthodontics! My son had an emergency situation and Dr. Larson made him feel so comfortable. I knew he was in excellent hands. Thank you for getting him on a s soon as you did! Heather and Bodhi Caton
Rosie R.
It was alot better for my granddaughter this time .I hope to keep going with the same tec. Her journey with dr Larson. Is important. And how she feels means alot.thanks tec see u again.
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    Riverside, CA 92506
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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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