If you have misaligned teeth, it is never too late to visit an orthodontist for treatment. Today, there are many options available beyond basic metal braces. For example, clear and tooth-colored braces are becoming more popular. Read on to learn how a few popular orthodontic treatments work.
Besides the traditional metal braces, a patient can also get ceramic braces. These are closer to the natural tooth color. Each bracket is attached to the center of a tooth. An orthodontist will place wires in each bracket. During placement, an orthodontist will use dental bonding material to attach each bracket to the tooth. Sometimes, the orthodontist will use ultraviolet light to cure, or set, the dental cement.
Generally, braces are extremely successful. The age of a patient is one of the factors that will determine the success rate of the braces. Following the orthodontist’s instructions can help braces be more successful as well. For example, many orthodontists will have patients wear rubber bands or other orthodontic appliances. This can facilitate treatment.
Many people think that teeth are connected directly to the jawbone. It can be difficult to imagine how teeth can be moved. However, the teeth are connected to the jaw by a membrane under the gums. The pressure that braces place on the teeth affects the membrane and changes the position of the teeth.
First, an orthodontist will place the brackets on the teeth. Brackets are made out of plastic, ceramic or stainless steel. Each tooth has one bracket because it will allow more even pressure on each tooth. The orthodontist will place archwires on the teeth to connect the brackets. The orthodontist will use these wires to place pressure on the teeth. Usually, these are made from stainless steel or titanium.
The orthodontist will then place elastic bands, or O-rings, on each bracket. This can place more pressure on each tooth and the jaw. Sometimes, patients will have the option of choosing O-rings in different colors. For additional pressure for specific teeth, an orthodontist may use rubber bands. These usually connect an upper and lower tooth.
Another popular treatment option is clear aligners. An orthodontist will make a set of aligners, each of which will move the teeth a small amount. The first time a patient wears one of the aligners, it will place pressure on the teeth. As the teeth move, the pressure from that aligner will lessen.
Then the patient will move on to another aligner. Usually, a patient will wear an aligner for two weeks. Each aligner must be worn about 20 hours a day. This can help to speed up treatment.
It is a good idea to know about the tools and methods that an orthodontist uses to straighten crooked teeth. This can help you prepare for orthodontic treatment. Whether you choose braces, clear aligners or another treatment, there is an option for you out there.
Request an appointment here: https://fitsmilesortho.com or call FitSmiles Orthodontics at (714) 782-0217 for an appointment in our Tustin office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Have you put off a trip to the orthodontist because you are worried that you are too old? Do not think that orthodontic treatment is only for children and teens. No matter how old you are, there are treatments available to change your smile. You can be happy with the way you look and have…
It might be disconcerting to wear a retainer after the orthodontist removes your braces, but it is a necessary process. Despite you completing a comprehensive orthodontic treatment, your teeth will begin to shift afterward. Wearing a retainer forces your teeth to stay in their new place for a more extended period for optimal outcomes.Some orthodontic…
Although several underlying factors can contribute to "buck teeth," well-planned orthodontic treatment from an orthodontist can adjust them, transforming your smile. Buck teeth, also known as protruding front teeth, are a form of bite issue in which the upper teeth protrude by at least 2mm over the lower teeth. Genetics can cause the lower jaw to be…
An orthodontist might recommend devices like braces or clear aligners to help straighten your teeth. Both of these appliances work by applying a gentle, constant force on teeth, slowly moving them to a better position over the course of your treatment. Orthodontic issues are pretty common, and the American Association of Orthodontics states up to…