Patient experiences with the Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate patients' experiences with the Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device (FFRD).


METHODS
This was a survey focused on patient's comprehensive experience with FFRD, both initially and after several months of wear, including the patient's overall impression of the appliance. The survey was administered to 70 patients wearing FFRD in both university and private practice settings.


RESULTS
A high percentage (81.5%) reported a neutral to favorable experience with FFRD; 89.8% reported growing accustomed to the appliance within 4 weeks. The majority of those who had previously worn rubber bands found FFRD to be "easier." Cheek irritation was the most serious side effect (about 50%). Cheek irritation and other negative effects generally decreased over time.


CONCLUSIONS
The FFRD is relatively well accepted by patients. Most patients experience some discomfort and functional limitations; however, the effect generally diminishes with time, and patients adapt to the appliance. Practitioners should be especially vigilant about problems with cheek irritation.
Department of Orthodontics, School of Dental Medicine, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.
Amy C
AC
Bowman
Humam
H
Saltaji
Carlos
C
Flores-Mir
Brian
B
Preston
Sawsan
S
Tabbaa
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D003625:Data Collection; D004868:Equipment Failure; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008312:Malocclusion, Angle Class II / Q000628:therapy*; D017289:Orthodontic Appliances, Functional / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011788:Quality of Life