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Orthopaedic appliances for children

Orthopaedic appliances are used in growing patients to correct dental and skeletal irregularities, particularly those affecting the alignment of the teeth and jaws. This form of treatment can prevent the need for more complex orthodontics or surgery later on in life.

At The Bachmayer Orthodontic Clinic we provide the following orthopaedic appliances:
Orthopaedic appliances for children
Expansion plate

Expansion
 plate

An expansion plate works by gradually expanding space in the upper jaw and is used to correct bite discrepancies and create space for more teeth. It is important to note that while expansion plates are removable, they must be kept in place during treatment to maintain their effectiveness.

What does an expansion plate achieve?

An expansion plate serves to widen the upper jaw, creating a broader and more attractive smile. It is also effective in correcting bite alignment which, left untreated, could lead to problems with the jaw joints and teeth later in life. Expansion is most effective while the jaws are still developing.
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The Twin
Block appliance

The Twin Block appliance is used to correct bite issues and improve jaw alignment and is commonly used to treat overbites and underbites. This appliance is made up of both an upper and lower component that work together to reposition the lower jaw.

These two appliances interlock at an angle, and they move your lower jaw forward and lock it into the ideal position when you bite together. Over time this forced position will train correct oral posture and become an effortless and permanent position for the jaw.

This appliance is designed to be worn full time, for a duration of about 9-12 months. This appliance can be used for adults and children, however, it is generally recommended for younger patients as their jaws are still growing and much easier to guide to the correct position.




The
Herbst appliance

The Herbst Appliance corrects jaw and tooth imbalances such as overbites by holding the lower jaw in a protrusive position. It is similar to the Twin Block Appliance except that it is not removable, thus not relying on the compliance of the patient for a successful outcome.

What should my child expect with the Herbst appliance?

When first administered, the appliance may feel a bit awkward and there may be some temporary discomfort, chewing difficulties, and speech changes. However, normal function and feeling should return with a week of the appliance being fitted.

Taking care of your child’s appliance and oral health

Since the appliance is fixed to the teeth, it is particularly important to maintain good oral health during treatment. Patients must brush and floss regularly and pay particular attention to the region of the appliance that sits adjacent to the gums, as this area is the most often neglected.

Make sure your child avoids chewing gum or any sticky foods such as caramel, as these can become stuck in the appliance and be very difficult to remove.

Headgear

Headgear is an appliance typically used in growing patients to correct overbites by holding back the growth of the upper jaw, allowing the lower jaw to catch up. Headgear can also be used to make more space for teeth to come in.

Headgear needs to be worn approximately 12 to 22 hours a day to be truly effective in correcting the overbite. The treatment lasts usually anywhere from 6 to 18 months, depending on the severity of the overbite and how much a patient is growing.

Reverse Headgear is an appliance used in young growing individuals who have under-developed upper jaws. It acts by putting forward traction on the upper jaw so that it may “catch up” in growth to the lower jaw.
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We can treat a variety of orthodontic concerns at The Bachmayer Orthodontic Clinic in Norwest and Tallawong. Visit us by making an appointment using the button below.
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Orthodontist Dr Helen Moon in Norwest and Tallawong

Dr Helen Moon, Specialist Orthodontist Sydney

Orthodontic Specialist
Dr. Helen Moon is an orthodontist who has taken the scenic route to perfecting smiles. After earning her Bachelor of Dental Science (Honours) from the University of Queensland, she moved halfway across the globe to complete a Master of Science in Orthodontics at the University of Manitoba. She's now qualified as a specialist orthodontist in Australia, Canada, and the USA because why settle for one country when you can have three?

Her research has been featured at international conferences, and she's a fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and a member of the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) and CAO (Canadian Association of Orthodontists).

Dr. Moon is passionate about providing evidence-based, personalised care, with a special interest in digital orthodontics and clear aligner therapy. She has also completed the Aligner Intensive Fellowship, an advanced training program in aligner treatment, ensuring her patients benefit from the latest techniques in orthodontic care. With a knack for spotting the little details that make a big difference, she loves helping patients achieve smiles they’re proud to show off.

During her time in Canada, Dr. Moon embraced the cold with skiing, chasing the northern lights, and surviving temperatures that could freeze your eyelashes. Now back in sunny Sydney, she’s swapped snow for sand and spends her time playing tennis, scuba diving, and enjoying life without five layers of clothing.
Dr David Bachmayer, Specialist Orthodontist Sydney

Dr David Bachmayer

Orthodontic Specialist
Dr David Bachmayer graduated as a dentist from the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, in 1979 (cum laude). After practising General Dentistry for three years, he went on to study orthodontics at the University of Toronto, where he received a Diploma in Orthodontics and a Master of Science.

Since arriving in Australia in 1986, David has maintained his private orthodontic practice in Norwest. He has been a tutor in orthodontics at the University of Sydney and has also been a visiting Dental Officer at the Children's Hospital at Westmead.

Dr Bachmayer was awarded the prestigious Harry Sicher Award by the American Association of Orthodontists for his research on children born with cleft lip and palate.

David has a special interest in clear aligner orthodontics and has received the Diamond Invisalign® Provider status. When he isn’t straightening smiles, he can be found paddling his surfski on Sydney Harbour.