The Carrière Distalizer is a fixed appliance which is attached to the upper molars and canines. It consists of an adhesive base for each of the teeth mentioned and a stiff frame that is fixed to the canine and connected to the first molar by a joint. By transmitting power through the joint, the upper 1st molars are not only distalized but also derotated. The Carrière Distalizer is designed to accommodate intermaxillary elastics to correct the Class II malocclusion, and these so-called Class II elastics are the actual working principle of this appliance. This principle has been proven for over 100 years and is such an “old hat” that it is difficult to understand why Carrière makes so much fuss about this anchoring appliance with quite a modest effect.
In addition, when using the Carrière Distalizer, unavoidable side effects on the upper canines are created in the sense of elongation and buccal shifting. Likewise, it can lead to the formation of gaps between canine and lateral incisor. Class II elastics are usually attached to a multi-bracket appliance which does not even cause such side effects. Against this background, the distalizer seems to be a bit useless. Nonetheless, Carrière publishes all kinds of miracles about it, from promoting growth to improving breathing which is both absolutely dubious. Overall, the Carrière Distalizer is a rather unnecessary appliance and not a real innovation.