Orthodontic treatment improves oral health by correcting crooked teeth and misaligned bites. Straighter teeth and jaws make it easier to keep clean, reduce plaque buildup, and prevent recurring infections. It is important to consider severity of dental issues, aesthetic preferences, lifestyle and schedule, cost and insurance coverage when choosing an orthodontics treatment option. The right treatment will ensure a healthy smile for years to come.

Braces

A common treatment option for a variety of orthodontic issues, braces use fixed appliances that gradually shift the teeth into proper alignment. This helps to fix things like crooked upper and lower teeth, protruding teeth, impacted or blocked teeth (those that remain partially or completely stuck under the gum tissue or bone), and mouth breathing problems.

A typical set of braces includes a series of small square-shaped metal brackets that get glued to the front of each tooth. They support arch wires that push the teeth into the desired positions. Some types of brackets are clear so they blend in better with your teeth. Others are made from ceramic, or a special type of porcelain, that makes them less visible.

Each bracket has a slot to hold the end of an arch wire, as well as wings that help grip the tooth. Some types of brackets use elastic ties to hold the wire in place. Others use hooks for ligatures or other attachments, such as coil springs and power chains. During an adjustment appointment, your orthodontist will decide if different shapes, sizes, and materials of arch wire should be used to achieve the desired results.

The resulting straighter teeth make it easier to brush and floss, which reduces the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. They also help to correct bite issues, which may cause problems when chewing or speaking. As a result, patients often report that they feel healthier and happier after their orthodontic treatment is complete. They also say that they are more confident in social situations, which can boost their self-esteem.

Invisalign

Unlike braces, Invisalign does not have visible wires or brackets. Instead, clear aligners are made from a comfortable, BPA-free plastic material and designed to fit snugly over the teeth. They are almost invisible when worn, and the majority of people do not notice them unless they are looking closely. This allows patients to straighten their smiles without feeling self-conscious about their orthodontic treatment.

During your Invisalign assessment, we will take X-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth. We then use these to create a digital model of your mouth and develop an individual treatment plan. You will receive a series of clear aligners that are swapped out regularly. These trays will shift your teeth little by little, resulting in a more confident, beautiful smile.

A straighter smile can boost your self-esteem in several ways. For one, studies have shown that people with straighter teeth are perceived as more successful and trustworthy in professional situations. It can also improve social interactions by making it easier to smile and engage with others.

Invisalign can help improve oral function by correcting bite issues like crowding, spacing, and overbite. This can reduce the strain on your jaw muscles and joints, which can prevent long-term health problems.

Additionally, Invisalign can subtly reshape your facial structure and balance your profile. For instance, if you have a small lower jaw, Invisalign can shift your teeth into their optimal positions and open up your arches, giving you a more youthful, attractive appearance.