A Twin Block appliance is made up of two removable plates that clip onto the upper and lower teeth. Whilst being worn, the appliance will hold the jaws slightly apart and the lower jaw in an advanced (forward) position.
It is designed to help achieve full growth potential of the lower jaw and to correct jaw relationship problems such as size difference and protrusion.
The upper plate may also have an expansion function which enables widening of a narrow dental arch. Expansion can be used to correct crossbite (upper teeth biting inside lower teeth) concerns, provide additional space for crowded teeth and provide better alignment between the upper and lower jaws.
Typically, the expansion is done at home on a daily basis by the patient or parent. A small tool (called a ‘key’) is used to turn a screw slightly, which opens the plate a little bit at a time.
Twin Block appliances are generally worn full-time (24/7) for between 9 - 12 months. Compliant wear and rate of jaw growth are the main factors in determining how long the appliance will need to be worn. Initially, they should be taken out only when eating, cleaning your teeth, and for contact sports.
Once you are used to them you can even leave them in when eating! To prevent loss or breakage, always place the Twin Block in its case when it is out of your mouth.
It will definitely feel quite strange for the first little while, with some mild tenderness of your teeth and jaw muscles very likely in the first 3-5 days. Persistence is the key and with dedicated wear, any discomfort being experienced will soon disappear.
Increased salivary flow and swallowing are also very common but will quickly pass. Speech will be different but the more you practice speaking with the appliance in your mouth the easier it becomes – we recommend talking a lot or reading a book out loud.
Remove the Twin Block and clean your teeth thoroughly 2 - 3 times a day. While the appliance is out of your mouth clean it with a separate toothbrush and cold water.
Once a month we recommend that you remove the appliance and soak it in a cleaning solution such as ‘Sterident’. Please keep them safe from pets who like to chew them!
If a breakage occurs please contact our office as soon as possible. Please don’t wait for your next routine visit as this may slow down your treatment. Avoid clicking the Twin Block in and out with your tongue as this can affect the fit and cause the wires to break.
If your appliance breaks or is lost, there may be a lab fee of up to $350 to repair/replace it.
Once made and fitted, you will need regular appointments (every 6 - 12 weeks approx.) for the Twin Block appliance to be checked or adjusted.
