These appliances are commonly used to correct crossbites or make space and have several designs;
Quad helix
This appliance is used to rotate the first molars and expand the side teeth by tipping. The appliance is activated and adjusted by the orthodontist 2 or 3 times over 9 months.
Rapid Palatal Expansion
This is a robust device designed to create orthopedic expansion of the palate. It is activated by the parent turning the ‘jackscrew’ in the middle of the appliance once or twice a day (according to the activation schedule recommended by the orthodontist). The appliance is usually in place for 3 months and then some form of retention appliance is required.
