Orthodontics
Braces
For most people, achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is the reason for choosing to receive orthodontic care. If you’re self-conscious about your smile, having braces will greatly improve the way you look and feel.
When your treatment is complete, you will have the smile you’ve always dreamed of as well as the confidence to show it off! We also want you to feel comfortable and confident throughout your entire orthodontic experience, so our practice is dedicated to making sure you receive the quality care you deserve.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
Orthodontic appliances are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable, or brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to the proper position.
Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can now choose from brackets that are clear or metallic, and in some cases, pick the color of your appliance. Wires are far less noticeable, and the latest materials are designed to move teeth faster with more comfort. Today, any age is a great age to wear braces!
How Long Will Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Depending on several factors, including age, treatment method, and how minor or severe your case is, treatment time varies. It can last from one to three years. A big factor in a successful treatment is you, the patient! The more involved and diligent you are, the quicker and more efficient your treatment will be. For children, receiving interceptive, or early treatment (also referred to as phase I) can also help ensure a quicker treatment time later on in life.
Before beginning your orthodontic care, Dr. Perry Do will discuss all your options and provide an estimate for how long your full treatment may take. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about orthodontics and the treatments we provide.
Types of Braces
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type and they are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, they straighten your teeth by using metal brackets and arch-wires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are made from the same materials as traditional braces. However, they do not require the use of elastics, which means fewer appointments and less friction placed on your teeth. Self-ligating braces are made with traditional metal, ceramic or clear brackets. They are the same size as metal braces, but they use a specialized clip in place of elastics to help the arch-wire guide teeth into place. The clip helps reduce the amount of pressure placed on the tooth and requires fewer adjustments because there are no elastics to replace.
Clear Braces or Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible than metal braces. For this reason, they are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they require more attention to oral hygiene, because ceramic braces are larger and more brittle than their metal counter parts. They tend to be used more commonly on upper front teeth rather than on the lower teeth.
Clear Aligners – Invisalign
Clear aligners are a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces. Not only are the aligners invisible, they are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want during treatment. Plus, this helps to make brushing and flossing less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and contain no metal. This helps reduce mouth abrasions during treatment.