Competencies
Loose braces - treatment, before & after
Loose braces can be useful from an early age. Speech disorders, incorrect swallowing or other malformations can be treated with braces. For very young patients, it is therefore less about correcting misaligned teeth and more about supporting healthy development.
Harmonious facial growth thanks to loose braces
We use removable appliances to control harmonious facial growth in adolescent patients between the ages of 6 and 14. These include
- Function controller according to Fränkel
- Bionator according to Balters
- Active panels
- Activator
Since every child is different, the oral cavity also differs from patient to patient. At JUST KFO, we tailor the treatment to the individual needs of the child. With the help of our digital diagnostics, we determine the optimum position of the temporomandibular joint, which affects the entire body statics.
Click here to go directly to the Frequently Asked Questions / FAQs on the topic of loose braces
Loose braces for different needs
The Bionator according to Prof. Dr. W. Balters and the Activator control the growth of the lower jaw towards the upper jaw if the lower jaw is too far back.
The function regulator III according to Prof. Fränkel, on the other hand, is preferred for a reversed overbite.
These functional orthodontic appliances are used in children while they are still growing. For boys, this is possible up to around the age of 14, for girls up to around the age of 12. Treatment with the Bionator can no longer be carried out on adults!
We often use the Bionator as part of a holistic treatment approach, especially for children with misaligned jaws in conjunction with head, neck and back pain as well as craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD).
Myofunctional therapy with loose braces
In the case of incorrect swallowing, a speech disorder or habitual mouth breathing, we recommend speech therapy and / or myofunctional therapy. Special loose braces are then used.
Normal swallowing and a normal tongue position shape the upper jaw in childhood. This creates important conditions for jaw growth and speech development.
The following orthodontic problems can arise as a result of tongue dysfunction:
- Narrow upper jaw
- Crossbite
- open bite
- Protrusion of the incisors
In infants and toddlers up to the age of three, the tongue can lie between the upper and lower incisors. This type of swallowing is called "infantile swallowing". In the mouth, there is a balance between the solid structures (jaw and palate) and the surrounding muscles (lips, cheeks, tongue). A change in the surrounding muscles, e.g. the open mouth during mouth breathing or infantile swallowing, changes the solid structure negatively. It is always the soft tissue that shapes the hard tissue, or in other words: "Form follows function!"
Speech therapy and / or myofunctional therapy
If we or the pediatrician detect incorrect swallowing, a speech disorder or habitual mouth breathing, we recommend speech therapy and / or myofunctional therapy. In myofunctional therapy, the correct tongue resting point on the palate is practiced and then the new swallowing movement is practiced step by step. This must then be automated so that your child swallows correctly ("somatically") even when they are not thinking about it, e.g. when sleeping.
In speech therapy, myofunctional therapy is combined with exercises to improve articulation.
If there is a neurological dysfunction such as constant right/left confusion, neurological reorganization (e.g. Padovan therapy) should be carried out. This should precede speech therapy and myofunctional therapy.
Myofunctional therapy can be supported with a bionator or functional regulator.
ACTION
Downloaddgs- Myofunctional therapy
"What does the position of the teeth have to do with speech and the interaction of the muscles in the mouth? Can you do something wrong when swallowing? Why does the pacifier get in the way? What causes an unfavorable posture? You will know the answers to all these questions after reading this book!
Further information:
German Society for Speech and Language Therapy Education (dgs)
German Federal Association of Speech and Language Pathologists (dbs)
Thumb sucking and treatment with loose braces
Misaligned teeth and jaws are partly hereditary, but for the most part are functional. Thumb sucking, incorrect swallowing or breathing through the mouth instead of the nose lead to maldevelopment of the masticatory organ.
Sucking should stop at the end of the oral phase, i.e. by the age of three. However, 60-80% of 3-4 year olds continue to suck beyond this age. Serious consequences can be expected for the permanent dentition if sucking continues after the age of 5.
The soother is generally a lesser evil than the thumb. A correctly shaped pacifier leads to less maldevelopment of the chewing organ and is also easier to wean off than the thumb.
It is often difficult to break sucking habits. We want to help you and your child with this. First, we will talk to your child. In some cases, we recommend simple orthodontic, removable appliances such as the oral vestibule plate. Loose braces can also help with this.
Your child can also hand in their pacifier to the pacifier fairy or learn from the thumb princess what happens to the thumb king when they suck their thumb. A sucking calendar also helps to stop thumb sucking. Ask for your next appointment and we will find the right solution for your child in our orthodontic practice.
Frequently asked questions / FAQ: Loose braces
Table of contents
- How much does a loose brace cost?
- How effective are loose braces?
- Which is better loose or fixed braces?
- How long do you have to wear loose braces?
- How long should loose braces be worn per day?
- What happens if you don't wear your loose braces?
- Who pays for loose braces?
- What is the cheapest brace?
- Are loose braces covered by health insurance?
- Can loose braces move teeth?
- Can you sleep with loose braces?
- How often do you have to clean your loose braces?
- When do you get used to loose braces?
- How quickly do loose braces work?
- How often do you have to wear loose braces?
- How do you wear loose braces?
- The use and advantages and disadvantages of loose braces for children and adolescents
How much does a loose brace cost?
The cost of loose bra ces depends on various factors and can vary depending on the type of braces and the extent of the treatment. Loose braces are often used as an orthodontic measure to correct misaligned teeth or to stabilize teeth in their new position after orthodontic treatment.
The exact costs also depend on the region and the orthodontist who carries out the treatment. It is important to discuss the costs with the orthodontist in advance and to find out about the possibilities of having the costs covered by health insurance. In some cases, the costs may be covered by health insurance if the treatment is medically necessary.
In summary, it can be said that the costs for loose braces can vary and depend on various factors. It is important to find out in advance about the costs and possibilities of cost coverage in order to make an informed decision.
How effective are loose braces?
Loose braces can be very effective in correcting slight misalignments. However, the effectiveness depends heavily on the type of misalignment. According to experts, loose braces are best suited for treating misaligned front teeth or minor rotations. For more serious misalignments or where more space is required to correct teeth, fixed braces are usually the better choice.
Loose braces are usually worn for an extended period of time, often up to 22 hours a day. Over time, the braces will gradually move the teeth into the correct position. Most patients have to wear loose braces for a few months to a year.
However, it is important to note that loose braces are only effective if they are worn correctly. If the patient does not wear the braces regularly and for a sufficiently long time, the effect may be impaired. In addition, loose braces must be cleaned regularly to prevent discoloration or damage to the braces.
Overall, loose braces can be a good option for correcting slight misalignments. The price of loose braces can vary depending on the type of braces and the extent of the treatment. It is important to seek advice from an orthodontist in Cologne Rodenkirchen about the costs and effectiveness of the treatment options.
Which is better loose or fixed braces?
The decision between loose and fixed braces depends on various factors, such as the individual dental problem and the treatment time. Fixed braces are more suitable for severe cases of misaligned teeth where more extensive correction is required. They can be more effective as they exert continuous pressure on the teeth and therefore provide faster results.
Loose braces, on the other hand, are more suitable for minor cases of misaligned teeth or as a retainer to stabilize the result of orthodontic treatment that has already been completed. They are also often an option for patients who prefer invisible or removable braces for aesthetic reasons.
It is important that you speak with a qualified orthodontist to determine the best option for your individual needs and goals.
How long do you have to wear loose braces?
The duration of wearing loose braces depends on various factors, such as the severity of the malocclusion, the patient's age and the body's individual reaction to the braces. As a rule, loose braces are worn for several months to a year to correct mild to moderate malocclusion.
However, it is important to follow the orthodontist's instructions exactly and to wear the braces for as long as recommended to achieve the best possible results.
How long should loose braces be worn per day?
The wearing time for loose braces can vary and depends on the individual treatment plan. In general, loose braces should be worn for at least 20 hours a day to achieve the desired effect. In some cases, it may be necessary to wear the braces during the day and at night, while in other cases a wearing time of only a few hours a day may be sufficient.
It is important to follow the dentist's or orthodontist's wearing instructions exactly in order to achieve the best possible result. If loose braces are not worn regularly and for long enough periods of time, treatment may be slowed down or even stopped. Regular check-ups with the dentist or orthodontist should also be made to ensure that the braces are working properly.
It can take a few days or weeks to get used to wearing loose braces. There may be a slight discomfort at first, but patients should usually get used to them quickly. It is also important to clean the braces regularly to ensure optimal hygiene and avoid discoloration or odors.
What happens if you don't wear your loose braces?
If you do not wear your loose braces regularly, this can affect the treatment results. Wearing loose braces should help to move the teeth into the desired position and keep them there. If the braces are not worn regularly, this process can slow down or even stop completely.
If the braces are not worn for a longer period of time, it can also happen that the teeth move back into their original position. This can result in the treatment taking longer or the teeth not remaining in the desired position after the treatment has been completed.
It is therefore important to wear the loose braces as recommended by your orthodontist in Cologne Rodenkirchen and to maintain them regularly. If you have problems wearing your braces, you should definitely talk to your orthodontist to find possible solutions.
Who pays for loose braces?
The costs of loose braces are not normally covered in full by statutory health insurance, but only partially or in certain cases, e.g. if there is a medical indication. Private health insurance or supplementary insurance can also cover the costs, but it depends on the individual contract conditions.
As a rule, patients have to pay a co-payment, the amount of which depends on various factors, such as the individual treatment requirements and the materials used. It is therefore advisable to find out about the exact costs and financing options from your health insurance provider or orthodontist in Cologne Rodenkirchen before starting treatment.
What is the cheapest brace?
The cheapest type of braces is usually loose braces. These are cheaper than fixed braces as they are made from a less expensive material and are not attached to the teeth. The cost can vary depending on the type of malocclusion and the material from which the loose braces are made.
Standard loose braces are generally the cheapest option and are usually made of acrylic or plastic. They are used to correct minor tooth misalignments and can also be used to treat jaw misalignments in many cases.
There are also more expensive versions of loose braces that are made from higher quality materials, such as ceramic or titanium. These materials are more resistant and durable than conventional plastic material. However, such braces can be more expensive than conventional loose braces.
The cost of loose braces can vary depending on the region and dental practice. However, health insurance companies generally only cover part of the cost of loose braces, as they are considered a cosmetic procedure. It is therefore advisable to find out about the costs and possible financing options in advance.
Are loose braces covered by health insurance?
As a rule, loose braces are covered by health insurance if certain medical requirements are met. However, this depends on various factors, such as the age of the patient, the severity of the malocclusion and the individual requirements of the health insurance company. As a rule, health insurance will only cover the costs of loose braces if they are medically necessary, i.e. if the misalignment of the teeth could lead to health problems.
In Germany, the assumption of costs for braces as part of orthodontic treatment for patients up to the age of 18 is regulated by law. Here, the costs are generally covered by the health insurance company as a standard benefit if the need for orthodontic treatment is determined by the orthodontist.
For adults, on the other hand, there is no statutory regulation on the assumption of costs for braces, meaning that health insurance companies examine and decide on the costs of treatment on an individual basis. The cost of braces for adults is often only covered in exceptional cases, for example if the teeth are severely misaligned, which can lead to health problems. In many cases, adults therefore have to bear the costs of braces themselves.
Before starting orthodontic treatment, it is always advisable to clarify in advance with your health insurance company which costs will be covered and which will not.
Can loose braces move teeth?
Loose braces are an orthodontic treatment used to move teeth and correct misalignments. Compared to fixed braces, they exert less force on the teeth and are often used to make minor corrections or as a retention device after fixed braces treatment.
Although loose braces are generally less effective than fixed braces, they may still be able to shift teeth if worn correctly. Loose braces work by applying constant but gentle pressure to the teeth and jaw. When used correctly, they can help to correct slight tooth misalignments and treat malocclusions.
However, it is important to note that loose braces are only effective if they are worn regularly. If the braces are not worn sufficiently or regularly, this can lead to the teeth returning to their original position or shifting differently than intended. In some cases, this can lead to even bigger problems that are difficult to correct later.
Overall, it can be said that loose braces can help shift teeth, but they also require the patient's cooperation and discipline to be effective. It is important to follow the orthodontist's instructions carefully and wear the braces regularly to achieve the best possible results.
Can you sleep with loose braces?
Loose braces are designed to be worn in the mouth to move the teeth into the desired position. It is usually recommended to wear the braces for at least 20 hours during the day for them to work effectively. However, this does not mean that they cannot be worn at night.
Many patients also wear their loose braces at night in order to achieve continuous adjustment of their teeth. However, it is important to remember that every patient is different and therefore requires individual recommendations. The dentist or orthodontist can therefore give specific instructions as to when the loose braces should be worn.
In general, loose braces should be worn at night if they are new or if the patient has recently had a brace adjustment. This helps to speed up progress and ensure that the teeth remain in the correct position. However, if the teeth are already well positioned and the patient feels comfortable, the loose braces can be removed at night.
It is also important to note that some patients may have difficulty sleeping with loose braces, especially in the first few weeks or months after starting treatment. In this case, it may be helpful to wear the loose braces only during the day and take them out at night until the patient gets used to them. However, it is important to follow the instructions of the dentist or orthodontist in order to achieve the best possible treatment success.
How often do you have to clean your loose braces?
It is recommended that you clean your loose braces regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria and plaque on the braces. This not only prolongs the durability of the braces, but also prevents possible damage to the teeth and gums. Experts recommend rinsing loose braces with water after every meal and cleaning them thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
It is also important to store the braces in a clean and dry container to prevent bacterial growth. It is recommended to clean and replace the container regularly to ensure optimal hygiene.
Overall, proper care of loose braces is very important to maintain oral health and ensure successful treatment.
When do you get used to loose braces?
Wearing loose braces can be a little unfamiliar at first and take some time to get used to. How long it takes to get used to it depends on various factors.
First of all, the type of braces plays a role. There are different types of loose braces, for example retainers, aligners / Invisalign or functional aligners. Depending on which type of braces are worn, the settling-in period can vary.
Another factor is individual sensitivity. Some people find wearing braces uncomfortable or annoying, while for others it is barely noticeable. The duration and frequency of wearing braces can also play a role. The longer and more often the braces are worn, the faster the body can get used to them.
In general, however, it can be assumed that the body will get used to wearing loose braces within a few days to weeks. During this time, it can be helpful to wear the braces regularly and slowly increase the wearing time to get the body used to the braces. Good oral hygiene and regular cleaning of the braces can also help the wearer to get used to the braces more quickly.
How quickly do loose braces work?
Loose braces usually work more slowly than fixed braces, as they do not act as strongly on the teeth. The exact time it takes to see results depends on various factors, such as the degree of misalignment of the teeth, the age of the patient and the length of time the braces are worn daily. However, it usually takes several weeks or months before a visible change in tooth alignment can be noticed.
It is important to note that the effectiveness of braces also depends on the patient's discipline. Loose braces must be worn regularly and for the recommended wearing time to achieve optimal results. If the braces are not worn as recommended, this may prolong the duration of treatment or compromise the desired result. It is therefore important to follow the orthodontist's instructions carefully and attend regular check-ups to monitor the progress of the treatment.
How often do you have to wear loose braces?
The duration, how often and how long you need to wear loose braces depends on your individual situation. As a rule, it is recommended to wear loose braces for at least 12 hours a day in order to achieve effective correction. However, the orthodontist may also recommend a longer wearing time of up to 22 hours per day.
During the first few days after having loose braces fitted, it may be uncomfortable and it may be difficult to speak or eat. The body first has to get used to the new situation and it is normal that it is a little unfamiliar at first. Over time, however, you will get used to wearing the braces and it will become easier and easier.
It is important to wear loose braces regularly in order to achieve effective correction. Not wearing the braces regularly can slow down or stop the teeth straightening process. The orthodontist will recommend how often you should wear the loose braces and it is important to follow this recommendation.
It is also important to clean the loose braces regularly to avoid bacteria and plaque build-up. The braces can simply be cleaned with a toothbrush and water, or you can use special cleaning agents recommended by your orthodontist.
How do you wear loose braces?
Loose braces are usually made for the upper or lower jaw and consist of plastic and metal brackets that hold the teeth in place. The braces are easy to put on and take off as they are not firmly anchored to the teeth. For loose braces to be fully effective, it is important that they are worn correctly.
As a rule, it is recommended that loose braces be worn for at least 12 to 14 hours a day. Ideally, they should be worn overnight and at school or work. After eating and brushing your teeth, the braces should also be put back in place.
It is important to clean the braces regularly to avoid a build-up of bacteria and plaque. The brace can be cleaned with a toothbrush and mild soapy water. It is important not to eat hot or spicy foods or drinks while wearing the brace to avoid deformation or damage to the brace.
To ensure that the teeth move into the correct position, the loose braces should be checked regularly by an orthodontist. If necessary, the orthodontist can also adjust the length of time the braces are worn in order to achieve optimum results.
The use and advantages and disadvantages of loose braces for children and adolescents
Loose braces, also known as functional orthodontic appliances, are often used in children and adolescents to influence the growth and development of the jaw. These appliances include the activator, the bionator and the Fränkel functional regulator. These braces have active elements that redirect the jaw in a certain direction to correct misalignments. Unlike fixed braces, these appliances can be removed, making them a type of invisible brace. The results of braces before and after are also generally pleasing when worn regularly.
Another common appliance is the active plate, which is also removable and is used to correct slight misalignments. Despite the advantages that loose braces offer, they also have disadvantages. They require a high level of patient compliance, as they need to be worn frequently to be effective, and they can be less precise than fixed braces. Therefore, after the loose braces phase, fixed braces are often used for fine-tuning.
Sources:
- de Bittencourt Neto, A. C., Saga, A. Y., Pacheco, A. A., & Tanaka, O. (2015). Therapeutic approach to Class II, Division 1 malocclusion with maxillary functional orthopedics. Dental press journal of orthodontics, 20(4), 99-125. https://doi.org/10.1590/2176-9451.20.4.099-125.sar
- Mahfouz, M., & Mahfouz, Y. (2015). Orthodontic Management of Occlusal Prematurity in Early Mixed Dentition. Open Journal of Stomatology, 5(2). https://doi.org/10.4236/ojst.2015.52006.
- Fränkel, R., & Fränkel, C. (1983). A functional approach to treatment of skeletal open bite. American Journal of Orthodontics, 84(1), 54-68. https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9416(83)90148-3
- Marşan G. (2007). Effects of activator and high-pull headgear combination therapy: skeletal, dentoalveolar, and soft tissue profile changes. European journal of orthodontics, 29(2), 140-148. https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/cjm003
- Meng, M., Xie, Y., Cao, J., Yu, Y., Zhou, X., & Zou, J. (2023). Effects of bonded spurs, fixed and removable palatal crib in the early treatment of anterior open bite: A systematic review and meta-analysis. American journal of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics : official publication of the American Association of Orthodontists, its constituent societies, and the American Board of Orthodontics, 163(3), 298-310. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajodo.2022.10.017
- Jacob, H. B., dos Santos-Pinto, A., & Buschang, P. H. (2014). Dental and skeletal components of Class II open bite treatment with a modified Thurow appliance. Dental press journal of orthodontics, 19(1), 19-25. https://doi.org/10.1590/2176-9451.19.1.019-025.oar
- Mew, J. R. C. (2004). The postural basis of malocclusion: a philosophical overview. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 126(6), 729-738. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajodo.2003.12.019
- Vogel, D., Ostermann, T., Vogel, H., Loskamp, K., & Fetz, K. (2022). Recommendation of Neurorehabilitation according to the Padovan-Method Neurofunctional Reorganization® for Treating Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Systematic Review. Complementary Medicine Research, 29(4), 330-361. https://doi.org/10.1159/000522571
- Liu, Y., Zhou, J. R., Xie, S. Q., Yang, X., & Chen, J. L. (2023). The Effects of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy on Children with OSAHS's Craniomaxillofacial Growth: A Systematic Review. Children (Basel), 10(4), 670. https://doi.org/10.3390/children10040670
- Almeida, M. R., Henriques, J. F., Almeida, R. R., Almeida-Pedrin, R. R., & Ursi, W. (2004). Treatment effects produced by the Bionator appliance. Comparison with an untreated Class II sample. European journal of orthodontics, 26(1), 65-72. https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/26.1.65
- Koretsi, V., Zymperdikas, V. F., Papageorgiou, S. N., & Papadopoulos, M. A. (2015). Treatment effects of removable functional appliances in patients with Class II malocclusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis. European journal of orthodontics, 37(4), 418-434. https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/cju071
Orthodontics Cologne Rodenkirchen Our competences
Aligner Invisalign
Discover aligners such as Invisalign Cologne - the invisible solution for a radiant smile without braces at your orthodontist in Cologne.
CMD pain therapy
Find out more about craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) - diagnosis, causes and our modern treatment approaches.
Snoring / sleep apnea
Improve your quality of life - discover our effective solutions against snoring and sleep apnea such as the snoring splint.
Sports mouthguard / mouthguard
Find out why a sports mouthguard is essential for sports and how it can help to prevent injuries in the mouth area.
Loose braces
Discover treatment with removable braces such as the Bionator - the practical and flexible solution for effective tooth correction.
Fixed braces
Find out more about fixed braces - the proven solution for precise and effective tooth correction at your orthodontist in Cologne.
Retention / Retainer
Secure your perfect smile with retention and retainers - find out more about this important phase after tooth correction.