LM-activator – an improved method of orthodontic dental treatment

Expensive and inconvenient to use braces have been replaced by the LM-activator (trainer) - a special mouth guard made of medical silicone.

Lm Activator can be used already at the teething stage and during the subsequent period of their growth. The device is easy to use and can be removed if necessary.

It has an aesthetic appearance, is almost invisible on the teeth, which makes the wearing process comfortable and enjoyable.

Purpose and capabilities

This orthodontic device is designed to correct the position of the dentition.
Recommended for use mainly in children from 3 months to 13 years. It can be installed even before teeth erupt. Thereby preventing their curvature and minimizing possible jaw deformations. With the help of a trainer it is possible to change an incorrect bite. The LM activator is available in several configurations and sizes. Each little patient can choose a suitable model.

The device promotes:

• teething in the correct position;
• alignment of the dental arch, incisors, molars and canines;
• formation of physiological bite;
• normal development of the lower jaw;
• getting rid of bad habits: thumb sucking, tongue sucking, etc.;
• normalization of respiratory and swallowing functions.

General presentation and design features

The LM activator is a correction device produced by the manufacturer in various shapes and sizes. Selecting a design is not particularly difficult - it is enough to use the standard method of measuring units of the dentition and jaw arch to ensure a tight fit and the required level of corrective load.

The material used to create the retainer is a special medical silicone, which is elastic and durable. The appearance of the device is similar to boxing mouthguards - the model is designed for installation on both dentitions and has high walls. In the front part there are openings for breathing, making it easier to use the structure during sleep, especially in situations where patients suffer from low nasopharyngeal obstruction. In addition, special recesses are provided for the front teeth to help return defective units to the correct position.

High-type models are characterized by the presence of lateral thickenings that facilitate the treatment of deep bites. The low-wall LM activator is suitable for solving various problems associated with abnormal tooth development. In addition, the products are divided into short and elongated categories - the first type of devices is relevant in cases where the second molars are in the process of eruption and cannot act as a basis for fastening.

When is use recommended and contraindicated?

Doctors recommend using the LM activator for the following pathologies:

• close arrangement of the front incisors and canines , when the teeth sit closely and overlap each other;
• varying degrees of rotation (rotation, rotation of the tooth);
• deep bite (improper closure of teeth when the upper incisors overlap the lower ones);
• open bite (when there is no closure of the teeth, there is a vertical gap between the front or side teeth);
• cross bite (the teeth intersect chaotically when closing, due to the displacement of the jaw bones in relation to each other);
• distal bite (the front jaw is strongly advanced relative to the lower jaw);
• a gummy smile is characterized by a strong opening of the upper gum.

When the use of silicone mouthguard is prohibited:

• narrow upper dental arch;
• mesial bite (the lower jaw is pushed forward in a closed mouth position);
• the midline is shifted by more than 3 mm.

Modern concepts of using LM-Activator

The prevalence of dental anomalies in modern society tends to steadily increase.

Thus, if, according to WHO data, in a study conducted in 1982, malocclusions were detected in 40-50% of those examined, then studies by O.V. Barchukova et al., conducted in 2003, showed that 79.9% of adolescents had bite pathology. Only 30% of malocclusions are hereditary, and 70% are caused by the lack of prevention and timely diagnosis and are formed under the influence of exogenous factors. (S.Sh. Itkina 2009) (1).

To correct dental anomalies, today there is a huge selection of orthodontic products that can satisfy the various requirements of doctors and patients.

However, the entire variety of devices can be divided into two large groups: mechanical and functional devices.

Mechanical ones, which primarily include braces, despite their undeniable advantages, have a number of serious disadvantages.

Devices of this group can be aggressive towards the hard tissues of teeth and periodontal structures, require frequent follow-up examinations, are expensive, and most importantly, affect only the manifestations of the anomaly, but not its causes, thereby determining a fairly large percentage of relapses after treatment.

Functional devices, on the contrary, eliminate dental anomalies by influencing the cause of the pathology, and therefore, when used correctly, give a stable result.

These devices are not aggressive to the oral cavity, do not require frequent follow-up examinations and are not expensive. However, the effectiveness of using functional devices directly depends on the patient’s growth capabilities, that is, on his age. Unfortunately, many pediatric dentists and orthodontists underestimate the method of early orthodontic correction, not to mention the preventive capabilities of functional appliances. Very often, during consultations, the patient is not offered timely assistance, but is given the recommendation “Come back at age 12, when all the permanent teeth have erupted and we will install a braces system.”

Today, prevention of diseases of the dental system is popular and in demand from parents who understand the value of dental health.

Should we engage in early treatment or give the pathology the opportunity to form?

Already at the stage of temporary and early mixed occlusion, the prerequisites for the formation of an occlusion anomaly are visible:

- absence of tremata and diastemas between teeth of temporary occlusion;

— violation of nasal breathing;

- infantile type of swallowing;

- a violation of sound pronunciation caused by incorrect articulation of the tongue.

These dysfunctions of the dental system are characterized by the formation and consolidation of bad habits - sucking and biting of lips, cheeks, tongue, various objects, the habit of not closing the lips, accompanied by laxity of the orbicularis oris muscle.

Each of the above factors or their combinations lead to characteristic changes in the morphology of the child’s dental system, causing an open, deep crossbite, protrusive position of the incisors, and so on. Self-regulation of malocclusions caused by bad habits is possible if the child eliminates this habit before the age of three. It is believed that after 5 years of age, self-regulation is unlikely. (E. S. Samokhina (1975). If the factors that form these occlusal disorders are not eliminated, the pathology will be consolidated and worsened.

On the other hand, when the factor that forms the pathology is eliminated, the occlusal relationship quickly normalizes in a growing patient with a very low percentage of relapse.

The use of the LM-Activator as a device for early myofunctional correction ensures high efficiency and stability of the result of orthodontic treatment.

• Clinical case 1: diagnosis: anterior open bite with protrusion of the maxillary incisors

• Clinical case 2: diagnosis: distal deep bite

One of the most serious problems in pediatric dentistry is traumatic damage to anterior teeth with unformed roots. Such an injury requires significant physical and material effort on the part of the parents and the patient, and leads to long-term, extended dental treatment with a questionable prognosis in many cases. Very often, the likelihood of dental injury is increased by malocclusion. Thus, with the protrusive position of the incisors, both in open and deep bite conditions, the protruding teeth will be the first to encounter a traumatic object when dropped or hit.

Deep incisal overjet, even without protrusive inclination, also increases the incidence of injury. Thus, compared with an incisal overlap of 0-3 mm, an overlap of 3-6 mm doubles, and an overlap of more than 6 mm triples the frequency of injuries in children. (2). From this we can conclude that in the presence of “traumatic” dental anomalies, immediate orthodontic correction is required.

The use of the LM-Activator also gives good results in situations where orthodontic movement is carried out after an injury and we are dealing with one or another restoration of the frontal teeth.

Quite often, pediatric dentists encounter the presence of anomalies of occlusion in combination with structural disorders of the hard tissues of teeth (enamel hypoplasia, fluorosis, imperfect amelo (dentino) genesis). In such a situation, when using fixed orthodontic equipment, in addition to the progression of damage to the hard tissues of the teeth, the procedure for adhesively fixing braces to damaged enamel often becomes ineffective. For such a child, the LM-Activator is the device of choice. In addition to the orthodontic apparatus, which in this case will be absolutely safe for the enamel of the teeth being moved, it will serve as an excellent mouthguard for remineralizing drugs, helping them strengthen their preventive and therapeutic properties. Thus, in our clinic, patients with structural disorders of the enamel who use LM-Activator use remineralizing preparations ROCS Medical mineral, Touth – Mousse for independent home applications. The result of this combination is a significant reduction in enamel sensitivity, improved appearance and surface quality. In situations where the enamel is healthy, but for orthodontic reasons, treatment is carried out using the LM-Activator, we recommend using the LM-Activator as a mouth guard for remineralization, thus preventing the carious process.

As our clinical practice shows, early (or it would be more correct to call it timely) orthodontic treatment using the LM-Activator is in demand by parents, its results are effective and stable. The LM-Activator is the device of choice in the treatment of children with structural enamel disorders, as well as in cases of extensive restoration of anterior teeth after trauma.

The device has proven itself when used in complex caries prevention as a mouth guard for remineralization. The use of an activator in early mixed dentition with certain dental anomalies significantly reduces the risk of injury to teeth with unformed roots.

Links

1 — Silin A.V., Yablochnikova N.E., Satygo E.A. Early orthodontic treatment

patients with dental anomalies in mixed dentition: Textbook. - St. Petersburg: North-West State Medical University named after. I.I.Mechnikova, 2011.-60p.

2 – Problem solving in orthodontics and pediatric dentistry / Declan Millett, Richard Welbury; lane from English-M: MEDpress-inform, 2009.-200p.

Author of the article:

Kosko A.V. - pediatric dentist, orthodontist, chief physician of the Dental Clinic "Satisfied Zub" in St. Petersburg, assistant of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry of the State Educational Institution of Higher Professional Education of the North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov of the Ministry of Health of Russia, member of the International Association of Pediatric Dentists.

Device design

A distinctive feature of this trainer is that it is made of hypoallergenic silicone of medium hardness. Patients very quickly get used to a new foreign body in the oral cavity.

The device is available for the upper and lower jaws. The high sides of the device allow it to be securely secured in the mouth and ensure further comfortable wearing.

The pad has through holes for air exchange, which is very important for free breathing, as well as gum health. In the area of ​​the molars, the structure is made with different intervals in width and height. This allows us to take into account the individual characteristics of the jaw structure of each person.

There are special grooves for the front teeth so that the teeth gradually return to their normal position as they grow.

There are high and low silicone devices. High teeth are used to correct open bites. Low ones are more functional.

LM activator models are also divided into long and short. The long design is used when most molars are present. The short model is necessary for patients with seventh molars that have not yet appeared.

Types

LM-Activator trainers have several varieties, depending on their characteristics.

They differ in height, length, size.

To determine the exact size, the manufacturer offers a special measuring tool - the LM-OrthoSizer ruler.

It is intended to clarify the parameters of the incisors so that the doctor knows which trainers need to be installed in each specific case.

In what cases is the use of an LM activator effective, watch the video:

By height

The height of the device is presented in two types:

• low;
• tall.

Low structures are used in any cases of pathology of tooth growth and occlusion, with the exception of those related to the third class according to Engle. The presence of this degree of pathology is a contraindication for any LM-Activator models.

High trainers have limitations for use - they are installed in cases where the child has dentofacial or skeletal anomalies of an open bite.

Depending on the length of the apparatus, such trainers are installed at different times of teething .

By lenght

Depending on the length of the device, it is installed for specific indications.

LM-Activator is divided by length into:

• short;
• long.

Shortened models are often used in cases where not all molars have yet erupted. While the bite formation process is underway, the incisors are aligned using short devices.

Low, short restorations are placed before the second molars emerge. To differentiate between devices, low short ones are always supplied in yellow containers only.

Unlike short ones, low long models are placed after the eruption of the second molars. They are delivered in blue boxes.

Tall models are divided according to the same principle. Tall short are supplied in orange boxes, and long tall devices are supplied in green boxes.

To size

A characteristic feature of tall devices is their more pronounced density compared to low ones. After all, they are designed to work with serious pathologies of bite and tooth growth.

All models are also divided by number, which corresponds to the distance between the cutters. The doctor carefully and accurately measures the front teeth to minimize the possibility of error.

After this, an individual selection of the device occurs, for which the distance between the second incisor and the adjacent canine is additionally measured.

The process of dentition correction

The best effect is achieved if you start using the device in the early period before teething or during their appearance. As the child’s maxillofacial apparatus grows, the trainers have to be changed 2-3 times.

Stages of corrective treatment:

1. At the first visit to the doctor, a visual examination of the condition of the oral cavity takes place. Special measurements and x-rays are taken if necessary. The doctor makes a diagnosis. The orthodontist decides what type of fixation is required in each particular case. The expected duration of treatment is discussed.
2. Active use of the LM activator occurs strictly as prescribed by the doctor. It is necessary to observe the periods of wearing and removing the mouth guard. Follow instructions for care and cleaning of the device. Do not chew or squeeze the pads. After 1 month you should see a doctor. Next, you need to visit the orthodontist every 3 months to monitor and adjust the therapy.
3. The duration of treatment depends on the individual characteristics of the patient. Some people need little time to correct the deficiencies of jaw pathologies, while others need a long period of time to achieve results. Treatment can be completed after the correct bite has been formed and the teeth are aligned. In some cases, it is recommended to continue using the trainer only at night. All actions and manipulations of the doctor are based on data on the state of the patient’s bone-jaw characteristics. Taking into account growth rates and changes in physiological parameters. The average duration of treatment with LM-activator is 1 year.

The orthodontic device is made of durable, safe material. But still, with a strong mechanical impact on it, the device can become deformed. The instructions for use must be strictly followed.

Indications for use

After the examination, the doctor may recommend an LM activator if the following disorders are detected:

• all kinds of bite pathologies (crossbite, open, deep, distal);
• crowding of the frontal teeth;
• gummy smile;
• reverse arrangement of teeth.

If a child has bad habits, such as thumb sucking, or other factors that can lead to malocclusion, the device is recommended for use as a preventive measure.

Since the sizes of the devices differ, it is possible to choose a model for a patient of any age. This method of treatment, compared to fixed orthodontic structures, is more comfortable. In the photo you can see young patients before and after treatment.

Pros and cons - analysis of opinions

According to practicing orthodontists and dentists, as well as patient reviews, the LM activator is the optimal means of early correction and correction of orthodontic disorders.

We wear the activator for 3 months. We can wear it for two hours during the day only on weekends; we always wear it at night. The effect is noticeable even to a non-specialist. The dentition has become straighter due to the fact that the son sucked his tongue in his sleep, which is probably why the upper mouthguard is now a little chewed. Apparently, we will have to change the device soon. But I’m willing to pay a lot of money for the result.

Natalya 05/12/13

Don't expect quick results from wearing pads; be patient. Not all children are able to withstand a couple of hours during the day in silence, without opening their mouths. At night, when the baby falls asleep, he relaxes his jaws and the activator falls out onto the pillow (not every night, of course).

But despite this, our family appreciated this wonderful device. We are satisfied and recommend it to everyone.

Valentina Igorevna 02.23.14

LM-activator is a method of treatment, and at the same time a preventive measure. It is used for existing or possible pathologies in the structure of the dentition and malocclusion. This device helps children acquire a beautiful smile and communicate freely and uninhibitedly with their peers.

The photo shows the dentition before and after using the LM activator

Pros of the device:

• allows you to achieve the desired result in the shortest possible time;
• convenient design, aesthetic appearance;
• optimal wearing mode;
• used in the earliest stages of dentition formation;
• speech defects are eliminated, facial tone increases;
• helps get rid of bad habits;
• acceptable price.

LM-Activator has proven itself only on the positive side. Some patients have reported that the trays sometimes fall out of their mouths at night, but these are isolated cases.

Activator for correcting bite

LM activators are orthodontic structures based on medical silicone. Used primarily in children and adolescents. Good results are achieved in primary, mixed and initial permanent dentition.

The use of LM activators contributes to

• proper jaw development
• appearance of permanent teeth
• development of contacts between the teeth of the lower and upper jaws
• correct tongue position
• improving diction

Therapy with LM-activators allows you to do without complex orthodontic treatment. If the orthodontist's recommendations are strictly followed, therapy measures are very effective.

LM activator design

LM activators are made of hypoallergenic silicone material. Visually, the device resembles a mouth guard used by boxers. The material was chosen well; patients quickly get used to the LM activator.

The shape of the activators is identical to the correct bite. A large selection of models allows you to choose the appropriate device for each specific patient. If the child experiences discomfort while wearing it, such as strong pressure, the operation of the device can be changed.

Double jaw design. There are high, low, long and short types of LM activators.

• High short models are extended in the area of ​​the second premolars and molars. Correct skeletal and dental anomalies in open bite;
• Low, long models are elongated in the molar area. Necessary for children with erupted second molars.

The type and size of the LM activator are selected individually, taking into account the size of the anterior teeth and using the LM-OrthoSizer line.

There are breathing holes at the front of the LM activators. They are necessary for patients who have problems with nasal breathing. The correct position of the front teeth is determined by the grooves. The activator is worn with the mouth closed and teeth closed.

LM activators

• correct bite and straighten teeth
• sets the jaws in the correct relationship
• normalize respiratory processes
• make swallowing easier
• normalize the tone of the muscles of the face and jaws
• Helps you get rid of bad habits like nail biting and finger sucking
• eliminate the likelihood of future relapses
• serve for the prevention of orthodontic abnormalities

Areas of use

Indications for the use of LM activators

• distal, deep, open, cross bite types
• prevention of malocclusions
• close position of the front teeth
• reverse position of individual teeth
• gummy smile

Contraindications

• anterior bite
• midline shift of more than three millimeters
• narrowed row of upper teeth

LM activator in adult patients

Activators are used in adults

• with pathological abrasion of enamel and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joints
• as a mouthguard for remineralizing therapy
• as a retainer after orthodontic treatment

Orthodontists are constantly finding new areas of use for LM activators.

Advantages

• successfully correct bite and diction
• convenient and easy to use
• more aesthetically pleasing compared to braces
• tone the orbicularis oris muscle
• help give up bad habits
• do not cause allergies
• are cheaper than braces

Flaws

• sometimes fall out of the mouth during sleep

You can care for LM activators yourself. A simple type of maintenance is washing the structure in running water. All you need is a brush and toothpaste. The case is dishwasher safe.

Duration of treatment

The length of time to wear the LM activator is determined by the patient’s age, body characteristics and severity of the pathology. On average it takes at least a year. There may be a need for multiple activators as children grow older.

Wearing Features

The most favorable time to wear the LM activator is at night. During the day you can wear it for two hours. Depending on the specific situation, you can get by with wearing it only at night or, conversely, you may need to wear it for a long time during the day. The period of wearing the device at night and during the day is determined by the orthodontist.

When wearing the LM activator, you must properly fix your teeth and purse your lips. The device should not be bitten or chewed to avoid damaging it.

Summary

LM-activators are special orthodontic structures for bite correction, safe, effective and comfortable. They can only be worn for a few hours during the day. Whether you personally need an LM-activator - only a professional orthodontist can answer. We invite you to the “Jewelry Work” dental clinic for consultations and treatment.

Price issue

The price of the LM activator fluctuates around 4000-6000 rubles. Please remember that several devices may need to be changed during treatment as your child's jaws and facial bones grow and develop. Some people get by with just one trainer.

Straightening teeth with braces will cost much more, and their use is more uncomfortable and troublesome compared to trainers.

The main correction occurs at night. During the day, mouthguards can be worn at home, out of sight of prying eyes, this eliminates the feeling of discomfort and psychological stress due to the need to communicate with people during the treatment period.

LM-activator (orthodontic trainer) in Togliatti

In addition to the most well-known methods of bite correction - vestibular plates, flexes and braces - there is one more. We are talking about children's teeth trainers, which are also called LM activators. This device looks like a boxing mouthguard, which is inserted into the mouth and completely covers the teeth from the outside and inside. The design is made of flexible silicone or polyurethane of varying degrees of rigidity.

The advantage of the system is that the trainer does not need to be worn all the time. For results, it is enough to wear it for 1 hour during the day and all night. At the same time, it is very important to do this regularly, for which appropriate motivation of patients, especially the youngest, is very important.

Where can you buy an LM activator in Tolyatti?

At the Pearl Teeth dental clinic you can buy a T4K trainer, as well as T4A and T4B models for adults and children. We are located at Togliatti, Central district, st. Karbysheva, 2A. You can make an appointment for a preliminary consultation with an orthodontist by calling 69-78-27.

How much does it cost to correct your bite with a trainer?

The main advantage of LM activators is their availability. You can buy a children's trainer in our clinic at a very affordable price.

Advantages and disadvantages

Correcting malocclusion and other pathologies using an activator has several important advantages that distinguish it from other devices. Let's look at the main ones.

1. Successfully used to correct bite.
2. It has clear aesthetic advantages over braces.
3. Simple and easy to use.
4. Helps cope with bad habits that have a detrimental effect on the formation of the bite - finger sucking, nail biting.
5. Simultaneously with bite correction, it eliminates diction defects.
6. Increases the tone of the orbicularis oris muscle.
7. Low price compared to braces.

Rules for wearing and care

For many, the decisive factor when choosing treatment is its aesthetic component. The LM activator should be worn for two hours during the daytime. The main part of the treatment takes place at night, during sleep, when aesthetics are not important. The activator is quite durable thanks to special medical silicone, but if bite correction is carried out on a child, then you need to try to prevent him from gnawing on it.

During the first installation of the structure, the doctor gives all the necessary recommendations for wearing the activator. The device must be placed tightly on the teeth and the lips must be kept closed. Do not bite or chew the device too hard, as this may damage the silicone. Caring for the LM activator is very simple - just rinse it in running water. In case of severe contamination, boiling is allowed. A convenient case is included for storage.

Correcting the position of teeth with modern orthodontic structures can be comfortable and unnoticeable for the patient. Today we told you everything you need to know at the initial stage about treatment with LM activators. You will get even more information when watching the final video.