Frenkel apparatus: for what cases is it intended, application

The Frenkel appliance is one of the types of orthodontic appliances created to eliminate the problems of malocclusion, uneven teeth, and developmental deformities of the jaws in children.

This device allows parents from an early age to begin correcting congenital pathological disorders of the dentition (its use is allowed for children from 3-4 years old).

Features of the device design

The basis of the removable two-jaw apparatus is:

• complex metal frame;
• side (cheek) shields;
• lip pelota;
• loops for securing incisors and canines.

The frame is made of thin elastic wire, up to 1 mm in diameter, with three arcs:

• lingual;
• palatal;
• vestibular.

The arches are connected to plates made of plastic (less often metal); if necessary, screws and springs are additionally used to speed up the movement of certain teeth.

Double-jawed devices

Double-jaw orthodontic appliances are removable structures that correct the shape and width of the palate, the development and growth of the jaw bones, the position of the teeth in the oral cavity, and muscle tone. They are made in the laboratory using an individual impression, which is taken by an orthodontist. The devices have a base for the lower and upper jaws; retaining brackets, screws, hooks and springs are attached to the base.

As a rule, double-jaw appliances are used for treatment in childhood (when baby teeth are replaced by permanent ones), but sometimes they can also be prescribed to adult patients. Before eating or performing hygiene procedures, the structures can be easily removed, which is a big plus.

Photos of double-jaw orthodontic appliances

Twin Block

The Twin Block design includes two base plates, occlusal blocks with inclined planes, clasps, special arches, springs, control screws for proper fixation and impact on the jaw. The main functioning element here is an expansion screw fixed in the upper part of the device. The twin block is intended for the treatment and prevention of sagittal bite – an abnormal displacement of the jaw forward or backward.

Andresen-Goipl apparatus

The Andresen-Goipl apparatus consists of two basic elements fixed on the lower and upper jaws, which are connected to each other by a Coffin spring. On the top of the device there are two wings that fit tightly to the palate and lingual surface in the oral cavity. To ensure that the structure holds tightly, it has corresponding cavities that follow the shape of the palate and lingual surface. The Andresen-Goipl apparatus is designed to correct various types of violations, often with cross and mixed occlusions. During the treatment process, the orthodontist changes the position of the springs and screws, due to which the defects are corrected.

Frenkel apparatus

The Frenkel apparatus is a metal anatomical frame made of thin medical wire of increased strength, formed into special arches (for the palate, lingual cavity, vestibular and lingual arch). All arches are connected to the plates of the lower and upper jaws; special loops are attached to the arches, which secure the canines and incisors. In the case of treating very young patients, the device helps to get rid of bad habits associated with finger sucking, tongue swallowing, and also helps restore difficulty breathing.

Stages of installation of double-jaw orthodontic appliances

1

Examination, x-ray (if indicated), treatment (sanitation of the oral cavity)

2

Taking impressions, transfer to the laboratory

3

Manufacturing and installation of a two-jaw apparatus

4

Periodic visits to the doctor for correction (once a month)

Indications/Contraindications for installation of double jaw appliances

Indications

• Incorrect bite in children, adolescents, and sometimes in adults
• The need for expansion/constriction of the palate
• Incorrect and uneven position of teeth
• Preventive maintenance of teeth in the desired, correct position
• Gap between teeth
• Various types of violations, including cross and mixed occlusions
• Disturbances in the closure of the dentition
• Violations of dental aesthetics

Contraindications

• Inflammation of the gums in the form of gingivitis, periodontitis or periodontal disease
• Allergy to the material from which double-jaw appliances are made (metal, plastic)

Prices for double jaw appliances

Operating principle of the Frenkel apparatus

Most orthodontic structures have a mechanical effect on the dentition.

Frenkel developed an absolutely unique technique based on a functional effect on the regulation of muscle tone, with its help you can achieve the following results:

• reducing pressure on the cheeks and lips on the jaw in problem areas;
• positive effect on the activation of functions and natural functioning of the muscular tissues of the oral cavity;
• normalization of nasal breathing;
• the device promotes the desired position of the tongue, closing of the lips and thereby ensures the harmonious development and growth of the jaws of young patients.

Manufacturing process

The device is made on the basis of a two-jaw cast. The latter reflects the nature of the location of all teeth, alveolar processes and folds near the tongue. The final model is fixed in such a way that it forms the correct bite.

Based on the cast, the doctor determines the location of the side shields. These elements should not fit tightly to the dentition and alveolar processes. During the modeling process, wax is poured into the area where the side panels and caps will be located. The thickness of the former does not exceed 2.5 mm, the latter – 3 mm.

A special laboratory is engaged in manufacturing the base of the device. Metal arches are adjusted in the presence of the patient. The work on creating the Frenkel apparatus will be completed by polishing and grinding the plastic structural elements.

Indications for use of the Frenkel apparatus

The effective period for the treatment of children's dental pathologies is considered to be the time of their active growth (4 - 12 years).

An orthodontic appliance is used for the following pathologies:

• distal bite (strong development of the upper jaw);
• mesial bite (pushing forward of the lower teeth);
• open bite (the lower and upper dentitions do not meet, a gap is formed);
• neutral bite (insufficient development of alveolar processes);
• narrowing of the dentition;
• twisted teeth.

Design, types and principle of operation

Depending on the design and purpose, there are four main types of devices:

1. Type I Designed to eliminate neutral bite, with very close placement of units, with a labial inclination of the frontal area.
2. Type II Used to correct distal occlusion with palatal inclination of the incisors in the frontal region.
3. III type. Used for correction and normalization of mesial occlusion
4. IV type. A design designed to correct pathologies and open bites.

The design is complex, but effective; it requires professionalism and experience in using such systems from the doctor. Each device is manufactured taking into account anatomical features, it is as comfortable as possible for children, and can be used for two to three hours a day or at night. Proper use of the device improves aesthetics, eliminates defects and bad habits in the child, and normalizes breathing. In the future, the use of the device makes it possible to eliminate complex treatment methods.

Examination before physiotherapy

The appearance of the slightest signs of abnormal development of teeth in a child obliges parents to seek advice from an orthodontist.

After a visual examination, the doctor will suggest:

• take an x-ray or orthopantomogram of the upper and lower jaw;
• cure carious teeth and inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, if any.

Based on the images, the doctor will determine the type of pathology and prescribe treatment with the appropriate type of device design to eliminate the defect.

Pros and cons of using removable orthodontic appliances

Correction of the bite in a child under the age of 13 is possible only with the use of appropriate corrective plates - braces can be installed only after the formation of a permanent dentition (more often this occurs before the appearance of the outer chewing teeth - wisdom teeth (the end of apexogenesis and mineralization of the enamel, this occurs after tooth eruption, after 3 years).

Wearing removable orthodontic devices to correct your malocclusion has many benefits, including:

• It is possible to make the base of the plates in different colors - this is especially true for young children, who will be more willing to wear a beautiful, bright design.
• High production speed - the maximum production time for a removable orthodontic appliance is one week.
• Reasonable price – the price for the simplest braces will be several times higher.
• Easy to maintain - the plate/device only needs to be cleaned twice a day with a brush and gel (morning and evening).

The disadvantages include a long period of use - to achieve a visible result, you need to be with the plate at least 12 hours a day (the more we wear by the hour, the less by month). On average, you need to wear the plate for at least one year. Adaptation to orthodontic removable appliances occurs more slowly than to braces. The child experiences discomfort while caring for the plate (at this time the plate/device must be removed).

Encourage your children to have a beautiful smile!

Types of Frenkel apparatus

Different pathologies require different effects on the patient’s dental apparatus. There are four types of this design:

• FR - I is used to eliminate signs of distal occlusion with protrusion of the frontal teeth of the upper jaw, and with narrowing of the dentition. They consist of palatal and lingual arches, attached with upper and lower pelota. The cheek shields are connected to the lower pads using brackets. It is located in the oral cavity so that the shields do not come into contact with the alveolar ridge.
• FR-II is used to correct excessive inclination of the upper incisors (retrusion). It differs from the first type in the type of loop capes on the fangs and the presence of double pelotes. The shields are in close contact with the dentition and the crest of the alveoli. Made from transparent material.
• FR - III eliminates progeny (excessive development of the lower jaw). The design feature is the absence of lower pelotes and the presence of a vestibular arch.
• FR - IV corrects open bite, eliminates the reasons that hinder the development of the lower jaw. There are pads for the lower lip, a vestibular arch for the upper row, and metal pads. The device also helps to separate the bite.

Duration of treatment

The timing of correction using the Frenkel orthodontic apparatus depends on the Patient’s compliance with all recommendations and regular visits to the doctor. The greatest effectiveness is observed when installed at the age of 11-14 years, that is, before the formation of a permanent position of the teeth. It takes about 4-8 months for pronounced anomalies, and the result is permanent; the functionality and aesthetics of the series are fully restored. In case of serious pathologies and a mature bite, treatment may take at least a year and a half. But the first results become noticeable after two to four months. During the entire correction period, the structure is replaced up to three times.

Price

The price of the Frenkel apparatus depends on the following factors:

• condition of the oral cavity, degree of defect;
• ongoing diagnostic and preparatory activities;
• the type of device selected for correction;
• installation features, the need for additional actions.

To make a calculation, you must contact our clinic and undergo a preliminary examination and diagnosis. Based on the data obtained, the doctor will determine the treatment tactics and name the cost of the correction.

About Us

Magenta Dental Clinic is a modern orthodontic clinic that provides treatment services and elimination of a number of dental defects. We provide our Patients with the following benefits:

• use of certified materials and equipment;
• services of highly qualified doctors;
• treatment effectiveness;
• individual approach and comfortable conditions for each Patient;
• affordable price.

To make an appointment, leave a request on the website, call by phone, send a request by email. Our doctors are ready to advise you at any time and provide qualified assistance in accordance with the highest modern requirements.

Rules and terms for using the Frenkel apparatus

In order for the treatment to be effective, the following rules and deadlines must be observed:

• The Frenkel apparatus is used at night and for a short time during the day (2-3 hours). During daytime treatment, it is forbidden to talk or eat food.
• It is imperative to carry out daily hygiene procedures for the oral cavity and orthodontic structure to avoid the development of caries.
• The duration of the treatment period is from 8 months to 1.5 years.
• Due to the intensive development of the child’s dental apparatus, the device changes 3-4 times during treatment.

Wearing rules and care

Before starting therapy, the orthodontist gives detailed recommendations on the use and care of the regulator. The device should only be worn while sleeping because you should not chew or talk while wearing it. To enhance the effect, you can wear it for an additional three hours during the day. It does not cause discomfort to small patients (unlike many other orthodontic structures). Another advantage is the rapid adaptation period.

During the treatment process, you will need to change the product 2-3 times, because the child’s jaws are actively growing, and the effectiveness of the correction may decrease.

The device must be cleaned regularly to avoid the accumulation of bacteria on its surface. If you neglect proper care, this is fraught with the development of caries.

Results after therapy with the Frenkel apparatus

The use of the Frenkel apparatus in eliminating deviations in the development of the dentition gives a good effect:

• eliminates the need for a surgical solution to the problem in later stages of the disease;
• Speech defects caused by dental pathologies are corrected.
• children get rid of bad habits (holding a finger, a pencil in the mouth).
• the effectiveness of treatment has a positive effect not only on the physical condition of the child, but also improves his appearance and psychological mood.

The Frenkel apparatus is actively used by orthodontists, is popular among patients and is considered a worthy alternative to the braces system.

Price

The cost of manufacturing the Frenkel apparatus varies between 7,000–18,000 rubles .

Its price directly depends on the type of design:

• You will have to spend about 7 thousand to manufacture the first type of regulator.
• Ordering a Frenkel apparatus of the second and third types will cost 13 thousand rubles.
• Manufacturing the fourth type will cost about 18 thousand rubles.

This cost does not include the amount for treatment, including payment for services for preparing the dentition and correcting the apparatus.

The total cost of installation including manufacturing can cost from 13 thousand to 50 thousand rubles . The final price will depend not only on the type of structure, but also on the condition of the dentition and periodontal tissue.