How much longer will I need to wear the twin block appliance in a day except during meals?

Question

Hello doctor,

How much longer will I need to wear a twin block appliance if I do not wear it only while eating meals compared to wearing it the whole day? I do not engage in contact sports or swimming, but I brush my teeth at least three times a day.

Thank you

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Twin blocks are removable appliances used to correct the position of the lower jaw. They maintain the jaw in a forward position, forcing the muscles to stretch and adapt to the new alignment. For faster muscle adaptation, it is important to wear the appliance consistently for an extended period. Considering your age of 15 years, it may be slightly late for achieving optimal results with twin blocks. The ideal age for males is around 11 to 13 years, although it can vary. Nonetheless, you can still achieve results by being diligent and punctual in wearing the appliance.

You are allowed to remove the appliance during meals. You can consume liquids with the appliance in place, but anything requiring chewing should be eaten without the appliance. After the meal, remember to put the twin block back on. Wearing the twin block for approximately 20 to 22 hours a day is sufficient to obtain the desired results. You can take it off for about 2 to 4 hours during meals. There is no need to wear it the whole day. Whenever you remove the twin block, ensure you clean it under tap water to remove saliva and any other particles. Cleaning it with water at least twice a day is recommended.

Thanks and regards.

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