Removable appliances are dental devices used to align teeth and correct jaw relationships. They are commonly employed in orthodontic treatment, especially in children. These appliances facilitate proper positioning of teeth and jaws, guide jaw development, and are utilized for aesthetic improvement.

Removable appliance treatment can be used in the following situations:

1. Alignment of Teeth: Removable appliances are used to correct misalignment or irregular positioning of teeth.
2. Regulating Jaw Development: Some jaw issues, particularly in children and teenagers, can be corrected with removable appliances. For instance, they can assist in regulating jaw development for proper alignment of the upper and lower jaws.
3. Closing Gaps: Removable appliances can be utilized to close gaps between teeth.

Removable appliance treatment is typically performed using two types of orthodontic devices:

1. Plates: Clear plates are custom-designed by the dentist to fit the patient’s mouth and are removable. Plates, replaced regularly during treatment, facilitate the movement of teeth to address specific issues.
2. Retainers: Retainers are orthodontic devices made of metal or plastic that are attached to the teeth. They allow for slight movement of teeth and correction of jaw structure.

Removable appliance treatment is an option for cases where corrections to teeth are less severe or during the dental development phases in children. The duration of treatment can vary based on the required adjustments to the patient’s teeth, and progress is monitored through regular check-ups.