What Are Orthodontic Appliances?
At Christian Manley Orthodontics, we use advanced orthodontic appliances to create beautiful, healthy smiles that function properly. These custom-designed devices help guide jaw growth, correct bite alignment, and support long-term oral health—often reducing the need for surgery later in life.
Our practice proudly serves Sammamish, Issaquah, and nearby Eastside communities, offering personalized orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults. From traditional braces to cutting-edge digital treatments, Dr. Manley provides comprehensive solutions for every smile.
Common Orthodontic Appliances We Use
Palatal (Maxillary) Expander
A palatal expander widens the upper jaw to help teeth fit together correctly and to create space for incoming permanent teeth. It’s commonly used for children and early teens whose jaws are still developing.
At Christian Manley Orthodontics:
- The expander is cemented on the upper molars.
- A small screw is turned daily (as instructed) to gradually widen the palate.
- Treatment usually lasts 4–6 months, followed by a retainer to maintain results.
This appliance helps correct crossbites, crowding, and narrow arches, setting the stage for a healthy, symmetrical smile.
Herbst Appliance
The Herbst appliance gently moves the lower jaw forward to correct overbites and improve bite alignment. It’s typically used for growing patients with a lower jaw that sits too far back.
How it works:
- A metal tube connects upper and lower molars, guiding the jaw into an improved position.
- Adjustments are made as your child grows to ensure balanced facial development.
- Treatment generally lasts about 12 months.
The Herbst appliance promotes a stronger bite, better facial harmony, and improved long-term stability.
Why Orthodontic Appliances Are Important
Orthodontic appliances are key to achieving results that go beyond straight teeth. They help:
- Correct jaw alignment for better function and appearance
- Prevent more invasive treatments (like jaw surgery) later in life
- Enhance facial symmetry by supporting proper growth and proportion
- Improve oral health by allowing for easier cleaning and proper bite balance
Every treatment at Christian Manley Orthodontics is personalized to your needs – because every smile and every bite is unique.
Innovation at Work: 3D-Printed Appliances Made In-House
We’re proud to offer in-house 3D printing for select orthodontic appliances, giving our patients the benefit of faster, more precise, and more comfortable treatment options.
Our digital orthodontic lab allows us to:
- Create custom appliances on-site for quicker turnaround times
- Ensure perfect fit and comfort using precise digital scans
- Provide modern, innovative care that blends efficiency with excellence
By keeping appliance fabrication under our own roof, we can deliver better accuracy, faster results, and a smoother experience for every patient.
The Process: How We Personalize Your Treatment
- Comprehensive Evaluation – Dr. Manley examines your teeth, jaw alignment, and facial structure using advanced digital imaging.
- Customized Treatment Plan – We determine which appliance or combination of treatments best suits your goals and growth stage.
- 3D Design & Fabrication – If an appliance is needed, our team uses 3D printing technology to ensure an ideal fit and finish.
- Progress Monitoring – You’ll have regular visits at our Sammamish or Issaquah office to track progress and adjust as needed.
Every step is guided by precision, care, and the expertise of our team.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Whether your child needs early orthodontic treatment or you’re curious about appliances that support healthy jaw growth, Christian Manley Orthodontics offers modern, customized solutions for your family.
Book Your Free Orthodontic Consultation in Sammamish or Issaquah, WA
Let us show you how our advanced technology and in-house 3D printing can make orthodontic care simpler, faster, and more effective.