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Alternatives to Mini Screw Braces

Mini screw braces are devices which align teeth by using temporary anchorage of the brace for a more effective treatment. Besides the usual brackets and wires, an orthodontist inserts a mini screw into the bone in the mouth where it can be used as support for the brace itself or to steady some teeth while the brace moves the others into the desired position. Although an effective treatment in itself, mini screw braces are not the only solution for dental position problems. Other devices may also be more beneficial to some patients or they may be the patient's preference.

  1. Headgear

    • Headgear is a device used by orthodontists to help align a patient's teeth. This device uses bands and wires that go around the neck or over the head to connect to a support. The common types of headgear are cervical headgears and J-hook facebows. Although it also provides anchorage, it is not fixed to the bone like the mini screw. Headgear can be removed, but orthodontists usually require the patient to wear it 12 to 22 hours per day for 12 months or more, depending on the severity of the case or the age of the individual. However, as of 2010, the use of headgear is declining because of its bulk and appearance.

    Lingual and Palatal Arches

    • Lingual and palatal arches are dental appliances that help align the front teeth while keeping the molars in place. A wire is fitted around the molars or premolars. It then extends toward the front teeth. Palatal arches are used for the upper teeth while lingual arches are for the lower teeth. There are different types of arches such as the Nance appliance, transpalatal arch, roller bit, and the openbite appliance. Although they have different appearance, they still function similarly.

    Coil Springs

    • Interarch orthodontic coil springs are little springs attached to a bracket on the upper teeth and on the opposite bracket on the lower teeth to provide interarch tension. The devise is used to advance the incisors and upright the molars at the lower jaw. In addition, it also promotes growth of teeth and increases the length of the jaw to allow more room for the teeth. It is more commonly used among young patients. The spring can be covered by an expandable sheath to prevent irritation by pinching on the patient's cheeks.

    Surgery

    • In some cases, such as chronic infection and overcrowding of teeth, mini screws are difficult or even impossible to be used. Surgery is performed only in adults because the jawbone has already stopped growing. It should also be the last alternative to using mini screw implants, or any dental correction devices for that matter. Surgery may be performed by restructuring the jawbone through cutting and repositioning of the bones, or by pulling out the ones that are affected the most or the ones causing the trouble. Surgery may also be done only to permit the use of corrective braces to reduce the risk of complications.

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