Braces

Traditional braces correct many different teeth and jaw issues. In addition, they can remedy issues with speaking, eating, and keeping teeth clean. Braces are generally thought of as a right of passage for adolescents, however, they can be appropriate for people of all ages that have crooked or crowded teeth.

Oral appliances are generally used in cases where the patient has a malocclusion. You may have heard your dentist refer to a malocclusion during a visit, this means, unhealthy bite. Furthermore, a malocclusion refers to any type of irregular contact between the top and bottom set of teeth. Some types of malocclusions are considered to be: underbites, crossbites, or teeth crowding. Luckily, the majority of these issues can be fixed with dental appliances and braces. This removes the need, in most cases, for surgery, or changing the structure of the teeth.

Braces the Length of Treatment

Braces last for one to three years, depending on the patient’s individual needs. Aftercare includes a retainer that is worn at night to maintain the place of the corrected smile.

Any oral appliance can be painful while your teeth and jaw are getting used to the pressure used to push the teeth into a better place. However, with a little time your mouth becomes used to this and the metal wires or brackets, and the pain subsides. This procedure and aftercare can lead to a lifelong healthy smile. Because teeth are easier to clean and less likely to be damaged from everyday use.

Traditional Metal

Traditional metal braces are generally the least expensive option for most patients. Additionally, if your insurance has an option for orthodontic care this procedure may be covered. These are attached on the front of teeth with brackets and wires. Traditional braces and appliances can correct most cases of crooked or crowded teeth, misaligned teeth, and jaw problems.

Most people are familiar with the traditional metal braces, but there are other possibilities for orthodontic care.

Ceramic

Ceramic braces are smaller and slightly less noticeable on the teeth than traditional metal braces but, can be more expensive. Like traditional braces, ceramic braces are placed on the outside of teeth. These braces are less noticeable than traditional metal braces and can conceal the treatment.

Lingual

Lingual braces are almost invisible  because they are placed behind the teeth. These are not very common because they are difficult to clean and maintain, but they can conceal the treatment process further.

Invisalign®

Clear appliances or Invisalign® are invisible mouth trays that you wear for 2 weeks. Treatment for Invisalign can last 6 months to 2 years and cannot normally help severe cases of malocclusion.  Clear aligners are removable so it makes it to eat the foods that you love and to clean your teeth. Learn more about Invisalign.

To see if you are a candidate for braces, call Ann Arbor Smiles today to schedule a consultation.