Carriere Motion Appliance

The Carriere® motion appliance provides a sleek and discrete alternative to traditional orthodontic headgear. At Ensley Orthodontics in Beaverton, Oregon, experienced orthodontists Kevin Ensley, DMD, and Sara Edmondson, DMD, use the Carriere motion appliance to correct Class II alignment issues — a group of common conditions that affect the molars. Call Ensley Orthodontics today to see if you can benefit from Carriere motion appliance treatment, or book an appointment online.

What is the Carriere® motion appliance?

The Carriere motion appliance is an orthodontic device designed to fix Class II bite abnormalities –– a group of alignment issues that affect the molars (the teeth at the back of your mouth). 

If you have a Class II bite abnormality, your orthodontist may prescribe treatment with the Carriere motion appliance before you get braces or Invisalign oral aligners. Straightening the teeth at the back of your mouth before making that transition helps speed up the treatment process.

The Carriere motion appliance doesn’t have any external components, so you can wear it discreetly, without anyone knowing.

What does treatment with the Carriere motion appliance involve?

Your Ensley Orthodontics provider attaches the Carriere motion appliance to your teeth during an outpatient procedure.

When you arrive at the office, your orthodontist administers a local anesthetic, ensuring your comfort. Then, they bond the Carriere appliance to the canine tooth and the first molar on both sides of your mouth with a strong dental glue.

After the glue dries, your orthodontist attaches an elastic o-ring (rubberband) to the appliance. The o-ring and metal appliance place mild pressure on your teeth and jaw, slowly improving their alignment and position.

How long does treatment with the Carriere motion appliance take?

The amount of time you wear your Carriere motion appliance depends on the misalignment of your molars and treatment goals. Most people achieve their desired results within six months, but it may take longer.* 

Do I need to clean my Carriere motion appliance?

Since the Carriere motion appliance is bonded to your teeth, you can’t remove it on your own. To keep it clean, brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly. Take time to clean around the anchors on your canine teeth and molars, as plaque and food particles tend to build up in these areas. 

Is the Carriere motion appliance painful?

After you get your Carriere motion appliance, it’s normal to experience increased tooth sensitivity and swollen gums, but your mouth should adjust quickly. Discomfort typically improves within a week, but if your symptoms continue or worsen, contact Ensley Orthodontics. 

Call Ensley Orthodontics today to see if you’re a candidate for treatment with the Carriere motion appliance or book online.

*Individual results may vary.