Why Braces?
For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. After your braces come off, you'll feel more self-confident. During your treatment, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible. For this purpose we offer different types of braces and appliances to correct your teeth.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. Technology has produced braces that are sophisticated and "patient friendly." Braces now have "prescriptions" built into them, eliminating the need to bend wires for each tooth. Additionally, braces can now be bonded directly to the front surface of each tooth instead of having a metal band cemented totally around the tooth.
The newest orthodontic wires available today are made of titanium alloys. These wires are "softer" and gentler than the stiff steel wires previously used and can "work" for a longer period of time. As a result, titanium wires do not make your teeth as sore and don't have to be adjusted as often. In addition, appointments don't last as long. Your braces will still come off just as fast, if not faster, than with the old-fashioned wires.
Duration of Treatment
Treatment time typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the growth of the patient's mouth and face and the severity of the problem. Patients grow at different rates and will respond variously to orthodontic treatment, so the time to case completion may differ from the original estimate. The patient's diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands or face mask is an important factor in achieving the most efficient treatment. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as six months.