Advanced Metal Braces - Self-Ligating Brackets
Self Ligating Braces are braces with brackets that do not need ligatures (the small bands that hold the wire in place). You may also hear them referred to as “speed braces”. Rather than using ligatures or metal ties, the brackets themselves have a sort of trap door that holds the arch wire in place. According to manufacturer's this creates less friction between the wire and the bracket.
Self-ligating brackets have many benefits. A common claim made by the manufacturers of these types of brackets is that they require less frequent office visits. They are also said to be easier to clean and somewhat more comfortable, as there is less resistance between the brackets and the arch wire.
Ceramic Braces
Lingual Braces are similar to Metal Braces but are attached behind the teeth so they’re not visible when you smile. Lingual braces are more expensive than traditional metal braces because they are less common increasing the cost of material.
Lingual Braces
The biggest difference between smile makeovers and full mouth restorations is that smile makeovers are elective, while full mouth restorations are done out of necessity. For the most part, smile makeovers are considered “cosmetic” treatments. Full mouth restorations are considered “restorative dentistry.” However, full mouth restorations often have cosmetic benefits. For instance, we might suggest restoring old fillings with tooth colored fillings, which not only has functional but also cosmetic benefits.
Invisalign – When You Don’t Want People To Know You Are Straightening Your Teeth
Invisalign is a very popular way to straighten teeth and offers a level of comfort and convenience not provided by regular braces. Invisalign is a new alternative to lingual braces if you don’t want it to be obvious you are straightening your teeth. Invisalign is similar to another well known product called Invisalign.
Invisalign straightens teeth using a custom-made series of aligners created for you only based on precise impressions of your teeth provided by your dentist. The aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic material that you wear over your teeth. Depending on what teeth need to be moved, your dentist will provide you with a series of sets of aligners.
There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. Another huge benefit of Invisalign trays is that they cause virtually no pain and discomfort. Metal brackets and wires have a tendency to poke at the gums and sides of the mouth but with clear trays there is no poking, pulling, pain, or bleeding.
In addition, Invisalign users have the ability to remove their trays before they eat, enabling them to eat all the foods they normally would. The biggest issue people have with regular braces is the dietary restrictions and limitations that come with wearing metal wires and brackets. Dentists recommend, for example, that people with braces avoid sticky foods, chewy substances, dishes with finely sliced meats and vegetables, and sugary beverages. With clear trays, though, all of these foods are allowed, provided you remove the trays before you eat.
Click HERE to learn more about Invisalign!How long will I wear them for?
You will wear each set of aligners for approximately 2 weeks until your treatment is complete. Wearing the aligners will gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements your dentist plans for you.
Each case obviously is different, therefore, your dentist will discuss with you your case on an individual basis and specifically if any adjustments need to be made. The best part of the whole process is that most people won’t even know you’re straightening your teeth.
Is Orthodontic Treatment Right for Me?
That is a question that we can only answer when we sit down and actually look over your teeth, your bite and the desired outcome. We offer a complimentary consultation and we invite you to call our office.
