Many developmental discrepancies can benefit from early intervention. This is true for the growth of the jaws as well, since the body's natural growth potential can help eliminate the need for major corrective surgery down the line. The branch of orthodontics not only deals with crooked or misaligned teeth — if treatment is started at an early stage, it can also correct certain misalignments of the jaw.
1. What is a twin block brace?
As the name suggests, twin block braces are a set of two removable appliances, one each for the upper and the lower jaw. They help to correct a discrepancy in the upper and the lower jaw by working simultaneously. Twin block braces fall into a category known as functional appliances.
A twin block is made up of two parts.
- The first is a metal wire that follows the outside surface of the teeth, securing the appliance.
- The second is an acrylic block that sits on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. These blocks are designed to gently guide the jaws into their ideal position whenever you chew, swallow or talk.
2. Who needs a twin block appliance?
Patients whose lower jaws are placed more backward in relation to the upper jaw are generally advised to wear twin block braces before starting with fixed braces. Using twin blocks can help guide the joints and muscles into the correct position when chewing, swallowing or at rest in such cases.
Certain modifications in twin blocks can help expand a narrow upper jaw to achieve an ideal biting position within the upper and lower teeth.
3. At which age can a twin block appliance be used?
Ideally, any functional treatment is started at a young age. Early intervention helps harness the growing phase of the child, and achieves faster and more ideal results. However, age is no bar for twin block braces. Adult patients can be advised twin block braces too, if the orthodontist determines it would benefit them.
4. Are twin blocks painful?
Like all orthodontic treatment, twin blocks do require some getting used to. You might experience mild pain in the muscles of your jaws during the initial days, as they get stretched to achieve their ideal position. This pain is, however, manageable with mild painkillers and tends to wear off in a few days. There can be some difficulty in chewing and speaking for a few days but again, with time, these issues wear off.
5. How long do I have to wear twin block braces?
Twin blocks are meant to be worn nearly 24 hours a day. Especially during the night, when you are sleeping. The more you wear the braces, the faster the results. If your orthodontist deems it necessary, he or she might advise you to remove the twin blocks while having your meals. Other than that, twin blocks are meant to be worn during the entire day except while brushing your teeth.
It is advisable to remove the twin blocks when you play contact sports like rugby, or when playing wind instruments.
6. Can I eat normally with my twin blocks on?
Once you get used to the twin block braces in a few days, you can eat almost anything that you like. However, your dentist might advise you to avoid certain hard and sticky foods which can cause your braces to break or get difficult to clean.
7. How long does the twin block treatment last?
Your orthodontist will be the best judge for the duration of your twin block treatment. But you can expect the treatment to last anywhere from six to 12 months.
8. How do I care for my twin block braces?
Removing the braces when brushing — and scrubbing them carefully and gently with a toothbrush — is generally all the care needed. Also, rinsing the appliance under running water after every meal will help remove any food particles stuck to your braces. Drinking water frequently will help prevent them from drying out in your mouth.
9. What happens after the completion of twin block treatment?
In most cases, twin blocks are used as a precursor to fixed braces to correct your misaligned teeth. Once your orthodontist feels that your jaws are in the intended position, he or she will move onto fixed braces to further correct your teeth.