What does “Nance appliance” mean?
A Nance appliance connects to the upper molars through wires and uses an acrylic button that rests against the front part of the palate. It is used in plans intended to resist forward molar movement and maintain space in the dental arch.
Manage the remaining space and tooth positions
The appliance may be selected after assessment of a need to maintain space, for example after early loss of primary teeth. The plan depends on which teeth were lost, existing space and bite relationships, the presence and development of permanent successors, hygiene and cooperation. The same appliance is not used for every early tooth loss.
Check the tissues around the palatal button
The acrylic button contacts the palatal tissue. Accumulated food and plaque or distortion of the appliance can cause irritation, inflammation or pain. Learn where and how to clean, and tell the team if the button feels embedded or remains painful.
Monitor the appliance and permanent tooth eruption together
Regular reviews check band attachment, the wire and button, and nearby teeth and gums. Growth and tooth eruption can change the plan for adjustment, repair or removal. If the appliance loosens or breaks, contact the team rather than gluing it yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are a Nance appliance and a transpalatal arch the same?
Both connect molars, but a Nance appliance includes an acrylic button against the anterior palate. Their structures, support and cleaning sites differ. Ask why the particular appliance was selected.
Should I put up with pain from the palatal button?
Persistent pain, a feeling that it is digging into the tissue, swelling or distortion needs assessment. Contact the team and do not push or trim the button yourself.
Checking space maintenance and appliance care
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Which space is being preserved, and until when?
Explanation and evidenceReview the current dentition and development of the permanent successors. Ask about the appliance’s goal, eruption monitoring and criteria for removal or the next treatment stage.
AAPD: Developing dentition and space management (2024 revision) - Care after treatment
How should I care for the button and bands?
Explanation and evidenceLearn the cleaning method and confirm contact and review arrangements for persistent pain, tissue irritation or looseness.
Pediatric Dentistry: Nance and transpalatal arch structures and soft-tissue concerns (2007)
