Braces

A  healthy, functional and attractive smile requires teeth that are  straight and jaws that are well aligned. A good bite with teeth that are  straight not only looks good, it contributes to overall oral health and  well being.

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Braces are  orthodontic devices that are used to address problems such as crooked,  gapped or crowded teeth, overbites or underbites and improper jaw relationships.  With advances in orthodontic technology and systems of care, a wide  selection of braces is available today. Providing effective and  efficient care, these choices are far less bulky, much less noticeable,  and more comfortable than previous generations of braces.

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The type of braces the dentist recommends for a patient’s case depends on several factors including:

• The severity of the bite problems

• The degree of crowding or spacing of the teeth

• If there is a need for extractions

• The relationship of the upper and lower jaws and if a surgical correction is also required

• How long the braces need to be worn to achieve the best outcome of care

• If any supplementary appliances are needed to support orthodontic correction

• A patient’s cosmetic concerns

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Metal Braces

The most  common type of braces worn today, remain “metal braces”. Made of  high-grade stainless steel these braces are significantly smaller and  have a lower profile than their predecessors from years ago. Each brace,  which is known as an orthodontic bracket, is individually bonded to the  front of each tooth. Metal braces allow for efficient and highly  controllable tooth movement.

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Ceramic Braces

When  conventional braces offer the best approach to care, but a more cosmetic  appearance is desired, ceramic braces provide an excellent alternative  to traditional metal brackets. Ceramic braces, or clear braces, blend in  with the natural color of your teeth, making it less obvious to others  that you are wearing orthodontic appliances. While being far less  visible, they still function in very much the same way as metal braces.

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Lingual Braces

Today, there  are even metal braces that can be placed on the “tongue side” or lingual  of every tooth, so that they are in effect completely hidden from the  outside world. These braces work in the same way as the metal or ceramic  braces affixed to the front of the teeth, but can be more uncomfortable  and more difficult to keep clean due to where they are located.

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Orthodontic Aligners

One of the  most recent options in orthodontic treatment that has provided a more  discreet, convenient and comfortable method of care is a custom sequence  of removable clear aligners, such as Invisalign, that gradually move the teeth into their correct positions.