Removable appliances that are used in the mouth have been around for several decades. Dentures were invented by the Egyptians back in 1500 B.C. They were made of human teeth threaded together by gold wire. Of course, George Washington is famous for having dentures made of ivory and human teeth, not wood as has been incorrectly reported.*** It sounds uncomfortable, but evidently, it worked. Fast forward to the 21st Century and there is a long list of removable appliances that dentists are recommending to their patients. This appliance list includes dentures, Invisalign, nightguards, snore appliances, and retainers.
A removable appliance doesn’t attach to teeth. It has the flexibility of being taken out anytime. It may be temporary or for permanent use. Removable appliances are custom-made oral devices that can be taken out of the mouth, washed, cleaned, or used in specific instructions given by their dentist. Most removable appliances, such as partial dentures, are intended to be used during the day but they can be taken out with ease at night.
Here are some common removable appliances and how they work:
- Dentures: These are used when one or more natural teeth are missing. It can be used for the upper or lower jaw. They can be used in conjunction with fixed appliances like bridges or implants.
- Invisalign: Digital impressions of teeth are made to prepare a custom treatment plan. Treatment involves the creation of clear removable aligners which will use slight forces to gradually shift teeth into their correct position. For most patients, treatment can last 6-9 months. The advantage of Invisalign is it allows the user to brush and floss their teeth like they normally do, and they are very esthetic, almost unnoticeable in the mouth.
- Nightguards: Nightguards prevent wear and damage from teeth-grinding and clenching. These are customized by the dentist. They can be hard or soft, depending on preference or wear pattern. It’s inserted over your top or bottom arch, creating a cushion with the opposing teeth.
- Snore Guards: This oral appliance pushes the lower jaw in a forward direction during sleep. Once the jaw is repositioned, it moves the tongue away from the back of the throat and decreases the potential for obstruction of the airway. Scientific research has shown this to be a proven alternative or adjunct to breathing devices or surgery.
- Retainers can be removable or fixed. They hold teeth in their position and are extremely useful after orthodontic treatment. They can help stabilize teeth and help prevent relapse.
All Smiles Bethesda can fit you comfortably with flexible and natural-looking removable appliances which will improve your smile and restore your confidence. They can be used to improve, enhance or maintain your smile. If you want to schedule an appointment for you or your family, please contact us at 301-984-9646 or info@allsmilesbethesda.com.
We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, Silver Spring, MD, and Washington, DC area.
*** For more information on Washington’s dentures, see the article on the Live Science website.