A Transpalatal Arch (TPA) is an orthodontic appliance used occasionally as part of comprehensive orthodontic treatment. It features a slender metal bar anchored to the upper molars on both sides of the mouth via bands (“ring”-type braces). This bar, spanning the roof of the mouth, stabilizes the width of the upper jaw/arch.
Orthodontic Benefits
The Transpalatal Arch is adept at addressing a spectrum of orthodontic challenges:
– Correcting and/or Maintaining Crossbite Correction: A condition where the width of the upper and lower teeth does not match, potentially leading to tooth wear and shifting of the lower jaw when biting down.
Crossbites refer to a dental malocclusion where some or all of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside when biting together normally. This misalignment can arise from a combination of skeletal and dental discrepancies.
If left untreated, crossbites can lead to uneven tooth wear, gum recession, and shifting of the jaw when biting down. Prompt orthodontic intervention is crucial to prevent potential complications and to restore the proper alignment of the teeth.
– Reducing Overjet (“overbite”): An overjet is characterized by the upper teeth significantly overlapping the lower teeth in a front-to-back (horizontal) direction, potentially impairing speech and mastication. Lay people typically refer to excess overjet as “overbite”.
While slight excess overjet is okay, pronounced overjet can cause various issues. The lower teeth might bite into the roof of the mouth, leading to gum problems or even tooth abrasion. Overbites can also impair clear speech, hinder effective mastication, and result in an imbalanced facial profile. Transpalatal arches can be helpful in the mechanics of rotating upper molars, which in turn helps address excess overjet. This can be done as part of comprehensive braces treatment or before Invisalign is used.
– Acting as an Anchor When Recovering Impacted Canines:
Upper jaw canines are the most common teeth to become impacted underneath the gumline (apart from wisdom teeth). When this occurs, the canine teeth are often positioned toward the roof of the mouth. Impacted canines can cause periodontal issues and damage the roots of adjacent permanent front teeth. Addressing impacted canines is more than an esthetic issue – it is critical to keeping the teeth safe. Transpalatal arches are helpful in recovering impacted upper jaw canines and protecting the roots of the upper front teeth.
The Transpalatal Arch can be combined with other orthodontic interventions, such as braces or Invisalign, to maximize positive outcomes.
Patient Suitability
Typically, patients with excess overjet, crossbites, or impacted upper canines are ideal candidates for the Transpalatal Arch.
Fitting the TPA
The procedure involves a meticulous process where bands are first fitted to the upper molars. These serve as anchor points. Once securely in place, an impression of the mouth is taken so that a metal bar can be attached to these anchor points. This bar, which spans the roof of the mouth, plays a pivotal role in orthodontic treatment. The entire process is implemented with precision and efficiency by Dr. Ryan Redford and his clinical staff to ensure optimal results.
Duration of Wear
The period that a patient might need the Transpalatal Arch varies, typically ranging from 6 to 18 months, based on individual orthodontic needs.
Comfort Considerations
While the initial days post-installation might bring minor discomfort or soreness, these sensations are temporary. Over-the-counter pain relief can alleviate this, and patients generally find the Transpalatal Arch comfortable after the brief adjustment period. Additionally, attention is paid to make sure the Transpalatal Arch is as unobtrusive to the tongue and speech as possible.
Invisalign for Teens
Invisalign represents a modern approach to orthodontics, utilizing a series of custom-made clear aligners that incrementally adjust teeth into their desired positions. These aligners are fabricated from a transparent thermoplastic material, making them virtually invisible when worn. This subtlety offers patients an aesthetic advantage over traditional braces, allowing them to undergo treatment without drawing undue attention to their orthodontic appliances.
Invisalign aligners are removable, giving patients the flexibility to take them out during meals and for oral hygiene routines. This removability promotes better dental health during treatment, as it eliminates the challenges of cleaning around fixed braces.
However, while Invisalign is highly effective for a range of orthodontic issues, certain complex challenges, especially those related to jaw and bite alignment may require additional intervention.
Invisalign and the Transpalatal Arch
There are certain situations with a Transpalatal Arch comes into play with aligner treatment. By integrating the Transpalatal Arch with comprehensive Invisalign treatment, orthodontists can provide a solution to some problems that Invisalign alone cannot address. The Transpalatal Arch can assist in stabilizing the width of the upper jaw, while Invisalign aligners focus on the alignment of individual teeth.
Together, these two tools form a powerful combination, enabling orthodontists to address and correct a broader spectrum of orthodontic challenges, ensuring patients achieve not only a visually appealing smile but also a functionally sound bite.
Request a Consultation at Burke & Redford Orthodontists
If you think a Transpalatal Arch may be required for your orthodontic treatment or to explore other orthodontic solutions, schedule a complimentary consultation with our Dr. Ryan Redford and Dr. Michael Burke at Burke & Redford Orthodontists.
Having catered to the orthodontic needs of children and teenagers across Southern California for over 30 years, Burke & Redford Orthodontists has the best reputation in the Inland Empire.
For consultations and questions about your orthodontic options for children and teens, call (951) 699-8011 and talk with our staff during business hours.
Here are our contact details for your convenience:
Temecula Office
Address: 41238 Margarita Rd Ste 101, Temecula, CA 92591
Phone: (951) 699-8011
Office Hours: M-F 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Lake Elsinore Office
Address: 351 Railroad Canyon Rd Ste C, Lake Elsinore, CA 92532
Phone: (951) 699-8011
Office Hours: Open 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.