Orthodontic treatment focuses on aligning the teeth and jaw to improve oral health and the aesthetics of your smile. Whether you’re a child, teenager, or an adult, these treatments can significantly improve the look and feel of your smile. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different orthodontic treatments available today, from traditional braces to innovative clear aligners.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. They consist of metal brackets glued to each tooth and connected by a thin wire, which the orthodontist periodically tightens to move the teeth into the correct position gradually. Despite the development of more discrete options, metal braces remain popular due to their effectiveness in treating complex dental issues.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work just like metal braces, but they use clear or tooth-colored brackets and, occasionally, wires, making them less noticeable. This makes ceramic braces a popular choice among teenagers and adults concerned about braces’ visual aspects. Although they are more aesthetically pleasing, ceramic braces require more attention to oral hygiene as they can stain more quickly than their metal counterparts.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are similar to traditional braces, but the brackets and wires are placed on the inside surfaces of the teeth. This placement makes them virtually invisible from the outside. Lingual braces are perfect for those who prefer a more discreet option but require the powerful corrective ability of traditional braces. However, they can be more challenging to clean and might be uncomfortable initially due to their position being close to the tongue.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are a modern alternative to braces and are virtually invisible. They consist of custom-made, clear plastic trays that fit snugly over the teeth. You wear each set of aligners for roughly a couple weeks before moving on to the next set in the series, progressively shifting your teeth into place. Clear aligners are removable, allowing for easier eating and cleaning, and they offer an aesthetic solution for those who prefer a less noticeable orthodontic treatment.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are made from the same materials as traditional metal braces. However, they do not require elastics, translating to fewer appointments and reduced friction inflicting the tooth. Self-ligating braces come with traditional metal, ceramic, or clear brackets. They are designed to be less painful and quicker at aligning teeth than conventional braces.
Palatal Expanders
For those with a narrow upper jaw, palatal expanders can widen the arch of the upper teeth. This device fits over several upper teeth in the back of the mouth and applies pressure to move the teeth farther apart gradually. This expansion helps to suit the upper and lower teeth better and can be a crucial step before further orthodontic treatments.
Retainers
After the main phase of orthodontic treatment, whether you’ve used braces or clear aligners, retainers are crucial for maintaining the results. They help to keep the teeth in their new position while the bone around them stabilizes. Retainers can be fixed or removable and must be worn as prescribed by your orthodontist to prevent the teeth from gradually shifting back to their original positions.
Choosing the proper orthodontic treatment at Slidell, Louisiana dental center can significantly affect your oral health and self-confidence. At Grand Family Dentistry, we offer a range of orthodontic treatment options to suit different needs and preferences.
For broader dental needs, don’t forget to explore our comprehensive general and family dentistry services.
Book an Appointment
If you would like to book an appointment with one of our dentists and teams at Grand Family Dentistry, we invite you to contact us in Mandeville, Louisiana. We are here to help with all your family’s dental needs!