Forsus™ appliance
During orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist may suggest placing a Forsus™ appliance in your child’s mouth. The Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device is an alternative to headgear that promotes growth in adolescents, helping to eliminate excessive overbites, improve the fit of teeth, and possibly prevent the need for jaw surgery.
Hanigan & Johnson Orthodontics can provide a complimentary consultation and determine the best orthodontic plan for your child.
What is a Forsus appliance?
A Forsus appliance attaches to a patient’s molars to correct class II malocclusions, also called an overbite. The appliance has a telescoping metal system wrapped in a spring, and it attaches to the back top molars and the front bottom molars.
Orthodontists typically use this appliance as an alternative to headgear or rubber bands because it provides continual pressure, and patients don’t need to remove and reinsert it. Sometimes, this can allow for quicker overbite treatment. When orthodontists use this device, patients can enjoy a healthier bite since the top and bottom molars rest more comfortably and resist grinding.
How does the Forsus appliance work?
Forsus springs apply pressure backward on the top teeth and forward on the bottom teeth to correct an overbite. The device works best on children because their mouths and teeth are still developing. The device can shape their teeth and jaws during development so that as adults, their jaw will be set in place for a healthy bite.
Orthodontists typically place the device after about six months of prior orthodontic treatment. They will place the device during a regular appointment.
Patients may experience a sore mouth and limited movement for a few days following device placement. After that, the device should rest comfortably in the mouth with little need for adjustment. Usually, the appliance remains in the mouth for about six to nine months, depending on the overbite’s severity.
One benefit of Forsus is that once your orthodontist places the device, it requires little maintenance and provides constant pressure to move the teeth and jaw. Children should brush carefully around the appliance to keep it clean and visit their orthodontist for regularly scheduled appointments while wearing the device.
Why choose Hanigan & Johnson Orthodontics for Forsus?
Our orthodontists at Hanigan & Johnson have a wide range of experience installing specialty orthodontic devices like Forsus. We will work with you and your child to provide positive treatment.
Our office has over 200 years of combined experience, and we’ll provide your child a lifetime of happy smiles. For patients in Tomball, Magnolia and Montgomery, we are the premier orthodontic option in the area. Let us correct your child’s overbite and provide a healthy smile that lasts.