How Limestone Hills Orthodontics Builds Appliances
The laser-sintered components lock onto tooth anatomy with a much lower failure rate than friction-fit bands, especially on partially-erupted molars in growing children. Dr. Viecilli selects each appliance based on the force-mechanics published data behind the design, not on the rep that visits the office. The practice does not have brand-partnership commitments to specific appliance manufacturers; the choice is made case by case based on what delivers the most predictable biological response for the patient’s anatomy and growth stage.
Appliances Used at Limestone Hills
Every appliance below is planned by Dr. Viecilli from the CBCT scan, digital impression, and clinical exam taken at the free consultation. Not from a default protocol. Tap any card for a full breakdown of when the appliance is used, how long it stays in, and what it costs.
Retainers
Essix, Vivera, and fixed retainers scanned on the day braces come off. In-house 3D printing means replacement retainers turn around in days, not weeks.
Palatal Expander
Custom-fit palatal expander planned from the CBCT scan when the upper arch is narrow. MARPE placement is coordinated in-office for older teens and adults who have outgrown conventional expansion.
Herbst & MARA
Fixed bite-correctors for growing teens with a Class II overbite. Dr. Greenberg and Dr. Cao select between the MARA and Herbst case by case based on the CBCT workup.
Headgear / Facemask
Reverse-pull facemask or high-pull headgear for younger patients with skeletal imbalance. Usually paired with expansion and worn mostly at home.
Functional Appliances
Removable and fixed appliances that guide jaw growth during the mixed-dentition years. Selected when the CBCT shows skeletal imbalance, the bite cannot resolve on its own.
Snoring / MAD Appliance
Custom mandibular advancement device for adult snoring and mild-to-moderate sleep apnea, prescribed in coordination with a sleep medicine physician or ENT.
Accelerated Treatment
Shorter treatment where the diagnosis supports it. High-frequency vibration or bone-remodeling protocols paired with weekly or biweekly aligner changes.
TMJ Mouth Guard
Custom occlusal splint for bruxism, clenching, or jaw joint pain. Scanned and 3D-printed in-house for a precise occlusal fit.
TADs (Mini Implants)
Temporary anchorage devices for precise tooth movement in complex cases. Placed in the office when anchorage is indicated.
Why Limestone Hills Orthodontics Appliances Are Different
3D Scanned and Custom-Designed
Laser-Sintered Crowns
Retainers Built In-House
MARPE Miniscrews In-Office
Biomechanics PhD Selection
Transparent Pricing
Appliances Pricing at a Glance
| Appliances | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Essix retainer (patient brings model) | $150 per arch | Same-day in-house |
| Essix retainer (new scan + 3D print) | $250 per arch | Same-day in-house |
| Angel retainer | $400 per arch | 2-3 week lab turnaround |
| Vivera retainer | $350 per arch | 2-3 week lab turnaround |
| Bonded fixed retainer (upper diastema, frenum) | $500 | Specific clinical indications only |
| Palatal expander | +$500 | Added to the comprehensive case fee |
| MARPE (miniscrew expansion) | $4,000 | In-office TAD placement, no surgeon referral |
| Herbst or MARA (functional appliance) | +$1,000 | Added to the comprehensive case fee |
| TMJ splint/mouth guard | $1,000 | Custom-fitted from digital scan |
| Reverse-pull headgear (Class III children) | Included in Phase 1 | Bundled with the Phase 1 braces fee |
What Families Say
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an appliance take to make?
Are impressions still done with goopy trays?
What if my appliance breaks?
Repair costs depend on whether the break is from a manufacturing defect (no charge) or from misuse (parts cost only, no labor charge for current patients).