Studies show that one of the first things people notice about you is your smile. For most people, a spectacular smile is a wonderful asset and the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. It contributes to enhanced self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-image—important qualities at every age. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit social and career success, as well as improve a person’s general attitude toward life. A beautiful smile is also a universally accepted sign of health and beauty. With today’s high-technology treatment options and materials, the smile of your dreams is easily achieved with efficiency and comfort!
In addition to esthetics, our teeth serve many other functions. When teeth aren’t straight and your bite isn’t right – health, function, and esthetics are compromised. A smile that is well-aligned is healthy. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean from harmful plaque that causes decay, bad breath, and gum disease. Well-aligned teeth and jaws provide optimal function, making chewing food more efficient. Also, tooth wear is greatly reduced, and the jaw joints are allowed to function with less stress and greater comfort. The long-term benefits of orthodontic treatment can be less costly than the additional care required to solve dental problems arising as a result of poorly aligned teeth!
During your treatment, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible. As a result, we sympathize with our patients to minimize the treatment time and inconvenience of undergoing treatment. This is why we offer a wide variety of treatments, including metal braces, clear braces, lingual braces (iBraces), and Invisalign. Please visit our orthodontic technologies section to learn more about our different technologies.
Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, white ceramic, or invisible plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to a corrected position. Today is a great time to wear braces! Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can choose brackets that are clear or metallic in color. You can choose the color of the ties that hold the wire in brackets. Wires are also less noticeable than they used to be and the latest materials move teeth faster with less discomfort to patients.
Treatment time typically ranges from one to two years, depending on the growth of the patient’s mouth and face, and the severity of the problem. Patients grow at different rates and will respond variously to orthodontic treatment, so the time to complete your treatment may differ from the original estimate. The patient’s diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands is an important factor in achieving the most efficient treatment. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as six months.