Palatal and lingual arches (and space maintainers)
Fixed wires on the upper or lower molar bands that hold the molars in place and keep space for the adult teeth.
Palatal arch
This is an appliance fixed to the upper arch. It normally involves bands fitted to the upper adult molars and a wire is attached to these bands. Acrylic can be added if required. This appliance can be used as a space maintainer to hold the upper molars in their current position if there has been early loss of a deciduous upper molar. Additionally, it can also be used as an anti-habit appliance by incorporating a tongue and thumb crib.
Lingual arch
This is a lower fixed appliance which is attached to the tongue side of the lower molar bands. This appliance acts as a space maintainer by holding the lower molars in their current position.
As with the palatal arch, the lingual arch can cross from the right adult first molar to the left adult molar. Alternatively, both can be limited to just one side and this is known as a band and loop space maintainer.
What to expect
At first the appliance will feel strange and will take a little while to get used to. Changes observed initially can include difficulty in talking, swallowing and also an increase in the saliva production. Within a few days these will return to normal.
You may also find that the new appliance might irritate your tongue. The best way to manage this discomfort is to keep your tongue away from the appliance when you are at rest, and to avoid playing with the appliance. If the discomfort persists, teething gel applied directly onto the tongue may offer some relief.
Keeping it clean
Brushing your teeth will now take a little extra time and care as you must ensure that you thoroughly brush your appliance and the area surrounding it. Make sure you clean your appliance and teeth after each meal as food tends to get caught around the appliance. If you are unable to brush, rinse your mouth with water.
What can’t I eat?
While the appliance is in place there are certain foods that must be avoided as they can cause the arch to dislodge. These foods include chomping on iceblocks and all chewy and sticky foods such as:
- Toffees and caramels
- Chewing gum and bubble gum
- Minties, Fantales, Redskins etc
You may also find that some foods such as bread and pasta get stuck between the arch and your palate. Ensure that you brush really well in order to remove any food.