Forsus Appliance Treatment

Forsus Appliance Treatment

What is a Forsus Appliance?

A Forsus appliance, which is also called a Forsus spring, is a device that is used to help correct overbites. In a nutshell, it works by moving the upper teeth back and the lower teeth forward. More specifically, the Forsus appliance, which is used in patients who are currently wearing braces, is a spring coil rod that connects the upper and lower braces. The spring applies continuous pressure to develop the lower jaw, which in turn will push the bottom teeth forward while moving the upper teeth back.

The Forsus appliance accomplishes similar results to the headgear that were very common years ago, but happily it is much more comfortable, works faster, and is more efficient. In most cases, it can eliminate the need for headgear, premolar teeth extractions, or corrective jaw surgery.

The Many Benefits of the Forsus Appliance

  • The Forsus appliance is quick to install, only requiring one appointment.
  • It allows you to move your jaw normally, meaning eating and speech won’t be affected.
  • There are no gaps in the coil, so you don’t have to worry about food becoming trapped.
  • The Forsus appliance is not bulky, and it is easy to clean.
  • Compliance with elastics is not as vital with the Forsus orthodontic appliance, allowing your orthodontist to properly correct overjets when elastic wear is not ideal.

How Long Do I Have to Wear a Forsus Appliance?

Forsus springs are used in conjunction with braces and are typically worn for 3-8 months. As a bonus, unlike rubber bands or headgear, you do not have to remember to wear it. It works around the clock, using continuous gentle forces to provide as efficient a treatment time as possible.

What does a Forsus Appliance Feel like?

You might notice some discomfort as your teeth adjust to the new orthodontic appliance. This is normal and should lessen in a few days. If your soreness doesn’t go away and you find the spring gets in your way, contact your Woodlands, TX orthodontist, Dr. Kendra Pratt Manning, as you might need an adjustment on the fit.

What if the Forsus spring is rubbing my cheek or I am biting on the spring?

It’s normal to have small sores on the inside of your cheeks while your mouth adjusts to the spring. To help alleviate this common issue, try placing some cotton rolls in between the Forsus spring and your cheek until your mouth adjusts to the appliance.

The Forsus appliance is designed to stay away from your teeth when you are chewing and out of the way from your normal bite. Because the appliance can break or become dislodged from your braces if you move your jaw excessively, try not to wiggle the spring or open your mouth too wide, as that could disrupt the spring. If the spring gets in the way when you close your mouth, do not bite on it. Biting on the appliance might break it or cause injury to your teeth and the inside of your mouth. If you find that the spring is preventing you from closing your mouth, please call our office and schedule a time to have the Forsus spring checked.

Can I Still Eat Normally with the Forsus Appliance?

While you should be able to eat the vast majority of your favorite foods after being fitted with a Forsus appliance, we do ask that you are careful about a few things. Avoid hard or sticky foods and be sure to cut your food into smaller pieces so it doesn’t damage the spring.

How do I clean a Forsus Appliance?

Keeping your Forsus orthodontic appliance and your teeth clean is key to maintaining your braces and an overall positive orthodontic experience. Try to brush your teeth immediately after eating, so that food particles don’t have a chance to stay stuck in your braces or your Forsus appliance.

If you have any questions, or are experiencing issues with your Forsus appliance, give Dr. Pratt Manning’s office in The Woodlands, TX near Magnolia and Tomball, TX, a call at 281-367-0050 (Woodlands) or 936-596-1200 (Montgomery) today!

Forsus Appliance FAQs

With the Forsus appliance, you can get rid of overbites, encourage lower jaw growth, and improve the way your teeth fit together (improve your occlusion). In many cases, using this appliance can prevent future jaw surgeries. Before you or your child decides to get this treatment, read on to learn more about the process and what to expect.

What is a Forsus appliance?

The Forsus appliance uses springs to push the top teeth backward and the bottom teeth forward. It applies a constant level of pressure to move your teeth.

How does a Forsus appliance work?

Forsus springs are essentially coiled springs wrapped around a rod. This is connected to the braces to help fix your bite. It is attached to the upper molars on either side of your mouth, and also your lower archwire to apply pressure which helps move your jaw into the correct bite position.

How long do you wear a Forsus appliance?

You’ll typically start using the Forsus appliance once you’ve already been wearing braces for 8 to 15 months. Normally, you’ll wear this appliance for about three to eight months. Unlike special headgear, you won’t have to remember to put it on because you wear it 24/7.

What can you eat with a Forsus appliance?

When you have the Forsus appliance, you should avoid eating sticky or hard foods. You should also cut your food into small pieces because large pieces can get caught in the spring. Initially, you may need to chew soft foods as your mouth adjusts to wearing them.

How do you brush your teeth with a Forsus appliance?

It’s a good idea to brush your teeth immediately after eating to get food particles out of your appliance. Brushing your teeth thoroughly on a regular basis is the best thing you can do to protect your teeth and help your appliance do its job.

Are Forsus springs better than elastic bands?

Compared to elastics, Forsus springs are less noticeable because they hide on the inside of your cheeks. You also don’t have to attach the springs on your own, so wearing them is just an automatic, easy part of your day-to-day life. Because they are more effective and do not rely on compliance, Forsus appliances tend to correct overbites much faster than elastic bands.

How do you clean a Forsus appliance?

You should brush your teeth and the appliance on a regular basis. You can floss the teeth next to the appliance and then use a Waterpik to clean around the appliance.

What is a Forsus appliance made of?

This appliance is made out of a stainless steel-spring and a stainless-steel tube. Once it is in place, the appliance is almost invisible to anyone else.

Does a Forsus appliance hurt?

Your teeth and jaw may be tender for the first few days after you get your appliance. If a wire or spring rubs against your gum or cheek, you can use a little wax on the location.

What problems can occur with a Forsus appliance?

In rare cases, the appliance may develop spring fatigue, sheared molar tubes, or other forms of breakage. Fortunately, all of these issues are fairly rare and can be fixed by replacing the affected parts at your orthodontist’s office.

How much does a Forsus appliance cost?

The total cost of a Forsus appliance depends on the severity of the problem, your orthodontist’s location, and whether you need other appliances as well. Typically, you’ll be quoted the price of the appliance and braces together. Depending on these factors, the overall cost can vary.

How do I know if my child needs a Forsus appliance?

A patient may need a Forsus appliance if they have a large overbite they can’t correct with just elastics. They may also get this appliance if they can’t wear elastics. To find out if your child is a candidate, you can always schedule an appointment with your orthodontist and ask.

If you are interested in getting the Forsus appliance, we can help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Pratt Manning today to learn more about this appliance and to see if it is an option for you.

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