Description
Treatment & Care
This appliance is intended to create space in a crowded dentition in order to allow more room to align the teeth. This is accomplished by utilizing a screw imbedded in the acrylic plate, which is opened in small increments over a prescribed treatment period using a wire key. As the screw is opened, a split in the acrylic plate widens along the midline causing it to apply pressure laterally against the teeth. This pressure gradually widens the patient’s arch creating additional space in which to align the teeth. The Schwartz expander often utilizes crossover finger springs to round out the anteriors as expansion is achieved. When indicated, Adams clasps may be added for better retention.
The appliance is intended for children exclusively, though recent debates question whether adults can benefit from it, too. Depending on the condition and diagnosis, children can wear either an upper & lower Schwarz appliance or a three-way Schwartz appliance. The first type focuses on proper development in the upper and/or lower jaw arch. At the same time, the three-way Schwarz appliance impacts the upper arch alone, thus enhancing the anterior and lateral development.
All Schwartz appliances come in many colors and designs, aspects which help children like their appliance better. This appliance should be cleaned every day with toothpaste and a soft toothbrush, morning and night. Encourage the patient to give enough time to clean thoroughly around the appliance, gums, teeth, and bands to maintain proper hygiene and prevent inflammation. 3 minutes is recommended.
Materials
- 028 Adams Clasps
- 0.32 Ball Clasps as needed
- Expansion Screw (1)
- T-Traditional Pink or T-Clear Acrylic
