Forsus: A Discreet Solution for Jaw Realignment

When you come to Robison Orthodontics with a concern about your child’s overbite, we may recommend the use of an appliance known as the Forsus Fatigue Resistance Device, more commonly known as Forsus. This device is approved to treat Class II malocclusions by guiding the jaw into the correct position to fix excessive overbite. We advise the use of Forsus because our team of skilled orthodontic professionals knows that it can adjust developing jaws to ensure the best smiles possible.

What Is the Forsus Appliance?

Forsus is a correction appliance that uses spring systems to guide the jaw and prevent overbite. It operates in a similar way to standard elastic but must be placed by an orthodontist. Forsus is ideal for those who fall under several categories, including those who have a difficult time wearing regular elastics or headgear and those with extreme overbite. While the needs of each patient are different, and Forsus may not be ideal for everyone, the appliance is a beneficial solution for many patients.

Correcting the overbite of a child early with the use of Forsus can even help prevent the need for jaw surgery later in life.

Forsus Appliance Class II

Benefits of the Forsus Appliance

Forsus appliances

Forsus offers several benefits when compared to other methods of jaw alignment, like elastics and headgear.

These benefits include:

  • A discreet solution to jaw realignment
  • A simple solution that only requires an initial install
  • No extra adjustment is needed
  • No need to remember to put on headgear at night, as Forsus is in place 24/7
  • Works with braces to straighten teeth 24/7
  • Much more comfortable than headgear and less invasive than jaw surgery
  • Designed with hygiene in mind
  • The ability to eat normally with the appliance in place

How Does the Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device Work?

Forsus uses a simple system to align the jaw for those with various kinds of overbites. In fact, even the most severe overbite may be corrected with Forsus.

Here is the basic process for bite correction with the Forsus appliance:

  1. Orthodontists typically wait to utilize Forsus until after braces have been in place for anywhere from eight to fifteen months after teeth are more aligned and any major gaps have been closed.
  2. A spring coil is attached to the upper molars on each side.
  3. A telescoping “force rod” attaches to the braces on the bottom teeth, creating force near the bottom canines.
  4. The springs and force rod apply consistent, gentle tension to the jaw, adjusting the position of the jaw and bite.
  5. The bite is shifted to its correct position over time.
  6. Shifting occurs on a consistent basis, with no hardware adjustment necessary during the three- to eight-month process.
  7. Progress is tracked every few weeks to verify that progress is being made as planned.
  8. The appliance is removed after treatment is completed.
basic process for bite correction with the Forsus appliance

How Your Orthodontist Installs the Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device for Overbite

The installation for the Forsus appliance is fairly simple. It requires a few simple steps your child is likely already familiar with after their previous orthodontist visits.

Step 1: Meet Your Orthodontist

First, it’s important to meet with Robison Orthodontics to learn more about the Forsus appliance – this way, you’ll be able to get any questions you have answered right away. During this appointment, you can decide if the appliance is right for you or your child. If you or your child have an excessive overbite that needs correction and would like an alternative to using headgear, your orthodontist may recommend Forsus.

Step 2: Apply Braces

Braces must be in place for Forsus use, as the appliance attaches to the braces, and teeth must have undergone initial straightening. Forsus is also used in conjunction with braces because the jaw must first become accustomed to using braces. Braces must be worn for a minimum of eight months before Forsus can be installed.

Step 3: Install the Forsus Device

After eight to twelve months of braces use, your orthodontist can install the Forsus appliance. Spring coils are attached to the brackets on the upper molars, and a force rod is attached to a wire near the lower canines. The rod telescopes in and out of the spring coils, creating tension that directs the jaw into a perfect position. Your orthodontist must install Forsus on both sides of the

Step 1: Track Progress

Every six weeks, you’ll return to Robison Orthodontics for a follow-up appointment. Your orthodontist will check the progress of the bite with the installation of the Forsus appliance. This confirms that Forsus is creating the intended results and is still a good solution for the issue.

Step 5: Removal and Final Adjustment

After Forsus has been in place for the prescribed amount of time – anywhere from three to twelve months – Robison Orthodontics will determine whether it has fully readjusted the bite and corrected jaw issues. If this is the case, the appliance can be removed. Then, your orthodontist can make any final adjustments to the braces so that they can finish making their corrections.

As you can see, Forsus is a straightforward process that enables orthodontists to correct severe overbite within a short amount of time. Most patients wear Forsus for around six months, though your child’s unique bite issue may require a different treatment timeline.

Forsus Restrictions

Forsus is an incredibly effective system that offers a more discreet method of bite correction than other options like headgear and elastics. In addition, there are generally fewer wear and use restrictions than with either headgear or elastics. However, because Forsus is used with braces, it is important that patients follow the same restrictions and guidelines they would normally use with braces. Forsus has the capability of transforming bite and promoting dental health, but attention to these restrictions is crucial.

Food and Drink

Any foods that are sticky, chewy, or hard can cause damage to brackets. As a result, these foods should be avoided for anyone wearing a Forsus appliance, as well. Foods like popcorn, gum, pretzels, and even ice should be avoided to limit damage to braces that may cause additional problems with Forsus appliances.

Installation

While Forsus is discreet and simple to wear, it is important to remember that Forsus can only be installed by an orthodontist. The device itself doesn’t typically need to be adjusted, but check-ups every six weeks are essential to monitor progress. After treatment, the device must be removed in-office by a skilled orthodontist.

Length of Wear

As mentioned, the Forsus appliance is typically installed after braces have been in use for at least eight months. Frequently, braces must be used for a full 12 months before Forsus can be installed. This is because braces must be allowed to complete their initial job of aligning teeth and closing any large gaps between the teeth. After this time, the Forsus appliance is installed and must be worn for at least four to six months, but it may be worn for up to a year. As Forsus must be installed by an orthodontist, it cannot be removed by the individual for sleeping or eating.

Mouthguard Usage

If your child plans to play sports, a mouthguard is recommended. The mouthguard will protect not only your child’s teeth but also the orthodontic appliances involved.

Are There Any Issues With Forsus?

The good news is that Forsus is simple to use and maintain, making it a convenient, effective system that gets results without frequent adjustments or visits. This can be a relief for many patients with extreme bite issues. However, there are still a few important things to keep in mind.

Forsus May Cause Minimal Initial Discomfort

Much like getting braces can cause the mouth and jaw to feel a little sore, Forsus does take some getting used to. Acclimation typically takes only a few days, so patients don’t need to worry that the effects are long-term. For example, your cheeks may feel some discomfort as they adjust to the appliance, and if this lasts more than a few days, you may receive padding that can be situated between Forsus and the cheek. This can give the soft tissues of your mouth a break until the discomfort subsides.

Loose Brackets

Because Forsus is used in conjunction with braces, any issues with the braces may affect the Forsus appliance. If you or your child experiences a loose bracket, contact your orthodontist right away so that the bracket can be fixed. Repairing the bracket is typically an uncomplicated procedure and can be handled quickly before any further issues arise.

Spring Displacement

On rare occasions when the mouth is opened too wide, the Forsus spring may pop out of place. There’s no need to fret about this issue, as it can typically be fixed at home. Just open wide again and carefully reconnect the spring to where it had been engaged. However, if the spring comes out of the mouth entirely, contact your orthodontist right away to reinstall the appliance so that you won’t lose any progress.

Forsus Care Instructions

As with braces, Forsus does create more places for food debris to get trapped. It also has more moving parts than your braces. Thus, it’s important that Forsus appliances are cared for properly to avoid dental issues and enhance the final results.

Keep these care tips in mind:

  • Brush regularly. Brushing regularly after every meal keeps food and plaque from building up between the appliance and the surface of the teeth. Make sure you’re brushing thoroughly, focusing on both the teeth and the appliance. If your child is using Forsus, ensure they are thoroughly brushing. 
  • Floss regularly. Be sure to floss your teeth after you brush. The teeth that are connected to the appliance can be particularly prone to buildup. It might take a little time to get used to flossing around the appliance, but it’s important to do.
  • Try a waterpik. Using a waterpik can help to make sure that any tough-to-reach spots can be fully cleaned. This apparatus shoots a pressurized stream of water between and around teeth and orthodontic appliances to remove plaque and food particles.
Forsus care tips

Forsus FAQ

If you’ve recently visited Robison Orthodontics and our team suggested the use of the Forsus Appliance, browse these FAQs for answers to your most important questions.

Can I Eat With Forsus?

Yes, you can eat with a Forsus appliance in place. This appliance is installed by your orthodontist and will stay in place until it has done its job correcting the jaw. Avoid eating anything too hard, chewy, or sticky, as these foods can displace or damage Forsus or your braces. Any foods that might require a lot of work to consume may need to be avoided if they can’t be broken into smaller pieces first.

How Long Will I Have to Wear Forsus?

First, you’ll need to have braces installed and let them complete the initial work of closing gaps and straightening teeth. It’s important that teeth are aligned and any gaps are closed before Forsus is installed, which can take up to a year. After that, Forsus can be installed, and the appliance is typically in place for three to twelve months while the bite is corrected; many people wear Forsus appliances for about six months.

What Happens if the Forsus Spring Comes Apart?

If you open your jaw extra wide, the springs may disengage. This can be incredibly stressful the first time it happens, but there’s no need to worry: the issue can be fixed at home the same way it happened. Just open your jaw extra wide again and reconnect the Forsus spring. If the spring falls out completely, contact your orthodontist right away.

What Does Forsus Do?

A severe overbite can create many issues, including troubled breathing, painful chewing, difficulty eating, tooth decay, gum disease, speech issues, jaw pain, and even temporomandibular disorders. Forsus can help to correct the issues caused by even the most severe overbite when installed with braces. Together, these appliances work to realign the jaw, correcting overbite and potentially preventing the need for jaw surgery.

Can Forsus Prevent Jaw Surgery?

For many patients, Forsus and braces can help to correct overbite. This can reduce the need for jaw surgery or other more invasive procedures later. Consult with Robison Orthodontics to see if Forsus is right for you or your child.

How Much Does Forsus Cost?

There are several factors that must be considered to determine the cost of the Forsus appliance. Some factors include the extent of the corrections needed and the amount of time needed to adjust the jaw. Each patient’s care requirements are unique, and the cost of the Forsus appliance isn’t a one-size-fits-all consideration. At Robison Orthodontics, our ultimate goal is to give access to as many patients as possible. Because of this, our care plans are kept as affordable as possible so that everyone can achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

Are you ready to learn more about the Forsus appliance?

For more information from Robison Orthodontics, the Valley area’s premiere orthodontics team, contact our care team today. We’ll help you address your overbite concerns and inspire the perfectly aligned, healthy smile you’ve always wanted.