Twin block braces
What is a twin block brace?
A twin block brace is designed to improve the way your teeth bite together. They’re sometimes known as functional appliances and produce accurate and reliable results. They’re generally used for children and teenagers.
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A twin block brace is made up of two removable appliances known as twin blocks, which need to be worn together. Unlike other removable aligners, such as Invisalign treatment, you don’t take them out to eat or drink. When your mouth is closed, both blocks should fit together.
More to know about Twin block braces
How long will my treatment take?
The length of treatment will depend on a number of factors, such as your age and the extent of your orthodontic needs. The average treatment time is around 6- 12 months. Your orthodontist will give you a more detailed estimated treatment time before you start your treatment.
How does a twin block brace work?
A twin block brace is used to correct misalignment such as a deep overbite, where your top teeth protrude significantly beyond your lower ones. It’s most effective for children and teenagers whose mouths have not fully developed yet.
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A twin block brace works by holding your lower jaw slightly forward and pulling back your upper teeth, encouraging your bottom jaw to grow and therefore correcting your bite. The twin blocks are adjusted during regular appointments with your orthodontist.
Are twin block braces painful?
For the first few days it may feel a little uncomfortable, and you might find it a little difficult to talk and eat with the brace in your mouth. But don’t worry, you’ll quickly get used to wearing your twin block brace. They can cause soreness for three to five days and every time after they’re adjusted. You can manage this with over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
How much do twin block braces cost?
The cost of your treatment depends on your individual needs. Your orthodontist will explain all the costs during your free consultation*. The first step is to sit down with an orthodontist who will take you through the treatment you require.
When do I need to wear my brace?
You’ll generally need to wear twin block braces during the day and at night. The brace uses the power of your chewing muscles, so you should wear it while you eat unless instructed not to do so by your orthodontist. You should only take it out to brush your teeth, play contact sports like rugby or hockey, or when playing a wind instrument.
How do I take care of my brace?
Your orthodontist will walk you through how to look after your brace once you have it fitted, but there are a few simple steps to follow:
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To keep your brace clean, soak both parts in a retainer cleaning solution once a week. You can also clean it with a toothbrush and water. Don’t use toothpaste to clean the brace
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Avoid clicking your twin block brace in and out repeatedly as this will cause it to weaken and break
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Avoid hard foods such as apples and crunchy foods which could damage your brace