Can teenagers have invisible braces or clear aligners?

A Herbst appliance is a fixed functional appliance used to correct an overjet (protruding upper teeth or receding lower jaw) by holding the lower jaw forward during growth. It is typically used in growing patients — usually aged 10–14 — where repositioning the jaw through growth modification is possible. Unlike braces, which straighten teeth, the Herbst appliance modifies the jaw relationship. It is usually worn full-time for 12–18 months and is fixed to the upper and lower teeth, so it cannot be removed by the patient.

If orthodontic wax is unavailable, short-term alternatives include silicone putty (used by brace wearers as a moulded cushion over brackets), dental comfort strips (pre-formed silicone barriers), and sugar-free soft cheese or bread as a very temporary barrier in an emergency. These alternatives are stopgaps only — they do not fix the underlying bracket or wire issue. If a bracket is rubbing severely or a wire is poking, contact your orthodontic practice to arrange a repair rather than relying on wax indefinitely.