Power Bar Appliance in Bellevue
At Dr. Wallace W. Wong, Orthodontics, we use the Power Bar appliance to help correct bite problems for patients in Bellevue, WA . The Power Bar is a small, discreet orthodontic appliance that is typically used at the beginning of treatment to improve the relationship between the upper and lower teeth, setting the stage for faster, more efficient results with braces or aligners.
Request an AppointmentHow the Power Bar Works
The Power Bar is a fixed appliance bonded to the side teeth, usually on each side of the upper arch. Working together with small elastics that you wear as directed, it applies gentle, steady pressure to move the back teeth into a better position. This helps correct the bite first, before or alongside the rest of your orthodontic treatment. Watch the animation above to see how the appliance works.
Bite Problems the Power Bar Can Help Correct
- Overbites, where the upper teeth sit too far forward over the lower teeth
- Bite discrepancies between the upper and lower back teeth
- Crowding caused by a lack of space in the upper arch
- Cases where correcting the bite early can shorten overall treatment time
Benefits of the Power Bar Appliance
- Corrects the bite early, so braces or aligners can focus on fine-tuning your smile
- Small and low-profile compared to many traditional bite-correcting appliances
- Can reduce the need for bulky headgear
- May help shorten total treatment time
- Works for many growing children, teens, and some adults
What to Expect During Power Bar Treatment
Placing the Power Bar is quick and comfortable. The appliance is bonded to your teeth much like braces brackets, and our team will show you how to attach and change your elastics. Wearing elastics consistently is essential for success. Most patients wear the Power Bar for a few months until the bite is corrected, after which treatment continues with clear braces, traditional braces, or Invisalign® clear aligners.
You may feel mild pressure for the first few days. Soft foods and orthodontic wax can help while you adjust. Keep the area around the appliance clean with thorough brushing and flossing, and avoid hard or sticky foods. If the appliance ever becomes loose, visit our orthodontic emergency care page and call our office.
Is the Power Bar Right for You or Your Child?
The Power Bar is often part of early orthodontic treatment for children and can also benefit teens and adults with certain bite problems. Dr. Wallace Wong will evaluate your bite using digital x-rays and scans from our iTero® scanner to determine whether this appliance is right for you. Call (425) 746-7126 to schedule your free consultation.
Power Bar FAQs
What is a Power Bar appliance?
The Power Bar is a small fixed orthodontic appliance bonded to the side teeth that works with elastics to help correct bite problems early in treatment.
What does the Power Bar correct?
The Power Bar is most often used to help correct overbites and bite discrepancies between the upper and lower teeth.
How long will I wear the Power Bar?
Most patients wear the Power Bar for a few months until the bite is corrected, then continue with braces or aligners.
Do I need to wear elastics with the Power Bar?
Yes. Elastics provide the force that moves the teeth, so wearing them consistently as directed is essential for success.
Does the Power Bar hurt?
Most patients feel only mild pressure for a few days after placement. Soft foods and orthodontic wax can help with comfort.
Can the Power Bar replace headgear?
In many cases, the Power Bar can correct bite problems without the need for bulky headgear.
Who is a good candidate for the Power Bar?
Many children, teens, and some adults with overbites or bite discrepancies are good candidates. Dr. Wong will determine if it is right for you.