The Mara appliance is an innovative orthodontic device used to help realign teeth and correct various malocclusions or improper bites. This removable oral appliance applies gentle pressures to the teeth and jaw to gradually shift them into proper alignment over several months of continuous wear.
The Mara appliance has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional metal braces for patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. But does this innovative appliance actually deliver effective results? Here is a detailed guide examining how the Mara appliance works, its benefits and potential side effects, cost considerations, ideal candidates, and tips for getting the most out of treatment.
What is the Mara Appliance?
The Mara appliance consists of custom-made upper and lower dental splints that fit precisely over the teeth. The splints are connected by metal framework with elastic bands that apply calibrated pressure between the upper and lower jaws. This pressure slowly shifts the teeth and guides the jaw into proper alignment.
The appliance is removable but must be worn for the majority of the day and night to be effective. It utilizes gentle, constant forces to move the teeth and jaw incrementally. Treatment usually lasts between 6 to 18 months depending on the individual case, with regular adjustment appointments.
How Does the Mara Appliance Work?
The Mara appliance works through a combination of light forces applied through the framework’s elastic bands connected to the custom dental splints.
First, your orthodontist will take impressions of your teeth and create 3D digital models. These models allow the orthodontist to simulate potential treatment paths and design the custom Mara appliance.
Upper and lower dental splints are fabricated from the 3D model to fit your teeth precisely. The metal framework connects to the splints and elastic bands are attached in a configuration designed to apply specific forces to shift your teeth and jaw.
When you wear the appliance, the elastic bands gently pull the upper and lower jaws incrementally into proper alignment. This stimulates bone remodeling in the jaw and surrounding tissues, gradually moving the teeth.
Over time, regular incremental movement caused by the Mara’s constant light forces shifts the teeth into alignment, correcting issues like overjet, crowding, underbites, crossbites, and more.
Conditions the Mara Appliance Can Treat
The Mara appliance is effective at treating a range of mild to moderate orthodontic conditions including:
- Overbite – when the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth
- Underbite – lower teeth extend outward, in front of upper teeth
- Crossbite – when one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth
- Overjet – protruding upper front teeth
- Open bite – space between upper and lower front teeth when biting
- Crowding – crooked, overlapping teeth due to lack of space
- Spacing – gaps between the teeth
- Jaw misalignment – incorrect positioning of the upper and lower jaws
The Mara appliance can treat these issues individually or in combination. It is generally recommended for adolescents over age 6 and adult patients.
Benefits of the Mara Appliance
Some key benefits of the Mara appliance include:
- Non-invasive – does not require brackets, wires, or glue bonded to the teeth
- Removable – can be taken out for eating, brushing, cleaning
- Comfortable – custom-fitted to your teeth, applies light forces
- Discreet appearance – less noticeable than traditional metal braces
- Allows normal speech – unlike bulky orthodontic headgear
- Permits normal eating – can eat all foods unlike with fixed braces
- Gradual force movement – prevents damage to tooth roots
- May reduce treatment time – when used with traditional braces
These advantages make the Mara appliance a desirable option for many patients seeking improved alignment without the drawbacks of fixed braces.
The Mara Treatment Process
The first step in Mara treatment is to get impressions made of your teeth so custom dental splints can be fabricated.
Once the appliance is ready, your orthodontist will fit it in your mouth and make any adjustments needed for optimal comfort and function. Instructions for wearing and caring for the appliance will be provided.
The Mara appliance should be worn for around 20-22 hours per day, only removing it for eating, drinking, brushing teeth, and cleaning the device. Regular adjustment appointments will be scheduled to ensure proper fit and function as treatment progresses.
On average, patients undergo Mara therapy for 9-12 months but treatment can range from 6 to 18 months depending on the severity of the case. Progress will be monitored using x-rays, scans, and examinations.
Once the desired results are achieved, you will stop Mara treatment and may need to wear a retainer to help maintain proper alignment.
Daily Care and Maintenance
To get the best results, it is essential to properly care for your Mara appliance:
- Clean thoroughly twice per day – use a toothbrush and cold water to remove food debris
- Rinse after meals – swish water around your mouth and the appliance
- Inspect for damage – check elastic bands, structure, and fit each day
- Follow all usage instructions – maintain 22 hours per day wear time
- Brush and floss normally – excellent oral hygiene prevents complications
- Keep all adjustment appointments – ensures continuing progress
Proper cleaning and maintenance will help avoid tooth decay, gum irritation, and other problems. Alert your orthodontist immediately if the appliance breaks or feels uncomfortable.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
When worn according to guidelines, the Mara appliance is unlikely to cause significant side effects. However, some potential issues include:
- Mild soreness or pressure on the teeth initially as they adjust
- Excess salivation for the first week or two
- Temporary tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Minor irritation such as redness or rubbing from the splint edges
- Difficulty speaking or eating at first but this improves quickly
More serious complications are very rare if the appliance is cared for properly and adjustment appointments are kept.
See your orthodontist immediately if pain, irritation, or problems persist so the fitting and treatment plan can be re-evaluated. Proper doctor supervision helps minimize any risks.
Mara Appliance Cost
The cost for Mara appliance treatment usually ranges from $3000 to $6000, depending on your individual treatment plan. However, this cost can vary based on your orthodontist and location.
Unlike traditional braces, the Mara appliance is typically not covered by dental insurance since it is considered an elective, cosmetic treatment.
However, many orthodontists offer payment plans to break the cost into more affordable monthly installments. And compared to conventional braces and Invisalign, the Mara appliance is a more budget-friendly solution.
Ideal Candidates for the Mara Appliance
The best candidates for Mara orthodontic treatment include:
- Adolescents over age 6 with primary/mixed dentition
- Teenagers who want a discrete alternative to braces
- Adults with mild to moderate crowding or spacing
- Patients with lower jaw misalignments or overbites
- Healthy individuals able to wear appliance for extended periods
- Committed people who will follow appliance guidelines
Mara therapy is not ideal for patients with severe malocclusions requiring jaw realignment. It also may not work well for patients with extensive dental work or missing teeth.
Talk to your orthodontist to determine if you are a good candidate based on a full examination and evaluation of your specific orthodontic needs.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Mara Treatment
To maximize the effectiveness of your Mara appliance:
- Wear the prescribed 22 hours per day consistently
- Check the fit daily and contact your orthodontist if it feels loose
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent complications
- Rinse with water after eating to keep the appliance clean
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage the appliance
- Attend all scheduled adjustment and progress check appointments
- Inform your orthodontist immediately of any unusual pain or issues
- Be patient – it takes months to achieve the desired outcome
Following your orthodontist’s instructions carefully is key to achieving your straighter, properly aligned smile. With consistent wear and proper care, the Mara appliance can successfully improve many orthodontic issues.
