The Forsus™ Fatigue Resistant Device (Forsus Spring) from 3M was introduced by William Vogt in 2006. The Forsus spring is a non-removable, fixed Class II Corrector. Forsus Spring is designed to address specific short lower jaw issues, improve jaw alignment, reduce deep bites, reduce upper teeth protrusion and facial aesthetics. Therefore, It is commonly used in growing kids and teens to treat large overjets (commonly referred to as ‘overbites’).
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Forsus springs apply continuous force to move the lower jaw forward and the upper teeth backward. This dual action helps close the bite and align the jaws properly.
Unlike removable appliances such as rubber bands, Forsus springs are fixed and non-removable in the mouth, which means they are constantly working, even when the patient is eating or sleeping. This force consistency leads to faster and more reliable results.
Forsus springs are composed of several key components:
Telescoping Rod:
This is the central part of the Forsus spring, consisting of a spring within a telescoping metal cylinder. This design allows the spring to compress and extend as the jaw moves, applying continuous pressure to guide the teeth and jaw into the correct position.
Active Spring:
The coil spring is the active component that generates the force needed to move the teeth and align the jaws. The spring’s compression provides a steady, gentle pressure that gradually shifts the teeth and jaw over time.
Molar Band Module:
These are the attachment points where the Forsus springs are typically attached to the upper molars band, while the lower end is connected to the lower braces archwire. This configuration ensures that the device exerts force in the desired direction—pushing the lower jaw forward and pulling the upper jaw back.
Forsus Springs MUST be paired with fixed braces to address ‘overbite’ problems that could not be effectively corrected by other methods, such as elastics, usually due to discipline or compliance problems. A patient first wears fixed braces for 6-8 months to allow for initial teeth straightening before Forsus Springs are placed.
Fixed braces like Damon, Damon Ceramic and traditional metal braces are all suitable with Forsus Springs.
Forsus Springs are a long-term, non-removable appliance usually worn for about 6-9 months (depending on the case complexity), or until the bite is fully corrected.
By combining dentoalveolar and skeletal effects, the Forsus springs effectively reduce large ‘overbites’ and position the lower jaw forward in short lower jaw patients. This improves the facial profile by giving the appearance of a more robust, pronounced chin and less protrusive upper lip.
By allowing more significant tooth movements, Forsus Springs is a viable non-extraction solution for patients for whom tooth extraction might have been considered in traditional orthodontic treatments.
The Forsus Spring has been available for over 20 years, and many research articles have been published on its efficacy and effectiveness.
Forsus Springs are fixed onto braces and CANNOT be removed by the patient. Therefore, Forsus springs are a CONVENIENT option for patients with poor or non-compliance or discipline with removable functional appliances like Invisalign MA, elastics, or headgear.
Forsus Springs has specially designed telescopic arms that DO NOT bow outwards for greater patient comfort. The compact size of the Forsus corrector helps the patient feel more comfortable and have a shorter adaptation time.
Forsus Springs are non-removable, therefore apply consistent, low force levels 24/7 for your comfort and increases treatment efficiency.
The Forsus Spring’s design allows precise control over the appliance’s activation. Depending on the case complexity, additional units splint crimps can be added to increase activation over time.
Customizing the number of splint crimps per side allows the Forsus Spring to activate one side of the appliance more than the other, thus correcting asymmetry and ‘overbites’ simultaneously.
This way, fixed braces with Forsus springs provide a more seamless and efficient treatment plan for faster results.
Forsus Springs are recommended for patients with Class II malocclusions caused by a moderately short lower jaw and protrusive upper front teeth.
Forsus springs work best on teens at their peak pubertal growth spurt. Having said that, there are many research papers discussing the use of Forsus Springs on older teens and young adults with more dentoalveolar changes compared to skeletal effects.
Please consult with MyBracesClinic’s experienced Orthodontic Team to prevent missing out on your child’s active growth period.
Initial Discomfort:
Patients may experience temporary discomfort or soreness when Forsus springs are first installed. This discomfort typically subsides after 7-10days as the mouth adjusts to the device. MyBracesClinic provides ample orthodontic wax to help you adapt to Forsus Springs as fast as possible.
It is common for patients to have tired and sore jaw muscles when Forsus Springs are first installed and just after activation.
Oral Hygiene:
Maintaining good oral hygiene can be more challenging with Forsus springs in place. Food particles can become trapped around the springs and brackets, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay. Patients must be diligent with brushing and flossing, and may benefit from using a water flosser or orthodontic mouth rinse.
Potential for Breakage:
Although Forsus springs are designed to be durable, they can sometimes break or become dislodged. Avoid eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods such as ice cubes, pretzels, and whole nuts. Regular orthodontic check-ups are essential to ensure the springs function correctly and address any issues promptly.
Speech and Eating Adjustments:
Some patients may find that the Forsus springs initially interfere with speech or make eating certain foods more difficult. However, most patients adapt to these changes relatively quickly.
Forsus springs are a valuable innovation in orthodontics. They provide an effective, noninvasive solution for correcting Class II malocclusions. Their ability to apply consistent, gentle force to the teeth and jaws makes them an excellent choice for patients with significant overbites, particularly those who struggle with compliance in wearing removable appliances.
As orthodontic techniques evolve, Forsus springs remain a trusted and reliable option for achieving the precise jaw alignment necessary for a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing bite.
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