Quad Helix

A Quad Helix (or quadhelix) is an orthodontic appliance for the upper teeth that is cemented in the mouth. It is attached to the molars by 2 bands and has four active helix springs that widen the arch of the mouth to make room for crowded teeth, or correct a posterior cross-bite, where lower teeth are buccal (outer) than upper teeth.A variety of this appliance is inserted into attachments that are welded to the bands. In this way the orthodontist can adjust the appliance without removing the bands.

Generally a short time after the placement of this appliance in the patient's mouth there is a good deal of pain to contend with. Pain relievers such as tylenol or ibupropen are prescribed and may be administered to alleviate the pain. The pain generally subsides 2-3 days later. This pain can be expected each time the patient returns to the orthodontist for an adjustment.