TYPES OF ORTHODONTIC TREATMENTS
The advancement in modern dental technology has provided many new effective treatment options to help people with misaligned teeth. These treatment options help patients get the perfect smile that they have always dreamed of. But before making any decision, it is very important to consult a highly experienced dental professional to discuss the right treatment option for your dental needs.
Here are some of the most popular orthodontic treatment options:
Dental Braces
Being the most accurate and efficient way of moving teeth, Dental braces (bands, wires and brackets) are fixed appliances composed of ceramic, plastic or metal. Usually, orthodontic treatment is done by making use of stainless steel brackets. Many people choose plastic or ceramic braces due to their appearance. However, plastic braces may discolor and stain during the treatment. Therefore, you should carefully discuss your options with your dentist before treatment. Braces are applied by attaching small brackets to the teeth with dental bonding agents. The orthodontist then places arch wires through these brackets. These arch wires serve as tracks to form the movement path, guiding your teeth to their right positions.
Reader more about adult braces and child braces.
Invisalign
Invisalign is the most modern treatment option available to people with teeth misalignment. This method of straightening the teeth is an effective alternative to dental braces. Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to create a series of custom-made, clear aligners that slowly move the teeth. Invisaligns are almost invisible, removable, very comfortable and don’t have brackets or wires to cause sores in the mouth.
Read more about Invisalign.
Orthodontic Elastics
Elastics, also known as “lacky bands” or “rubber bands”, are used to correct the bite. Orthodontic elastics are available in various strengths and sizes. The strength and size to be used depend on the pattern to be worn and the amount of force needed.
Retainers
Retainers prevent the shifting of your teeth to their previous position while the muscles, ligaments and bones adapt to the corrected position of your teeth. The various kinds of retainers include clear retainers, bonded retainers and plate retainers. The orthodontist decides which type of retainer is best for your teeth.
Read more about retainers.
Removable Appliances
Removable appliances are used to help move the teeth to its correct position. Usually, these appliances are used for simple tilting/tipping tooth movement. The orthodontist decides which type of removable appliance is right for your teeth.
Orthodontic Mouth Guards
Mouth guards are worn to prevent damage caused while playing sports. It is very important to protect your teeth while playing sports when you have braces. If you love to play sports like basketball, hockey, boxing, football, lacrosse, gymnastics, martial arts, rugby, racquetball, track and field, skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, skydiving, surfing, soccer, volleyball, weightlifting, wrestling or water polo, wearing a custom-fitted mouth guard is essential to prevent serious injuries that can cost you your smile.
It is very important to visit your orthodontist to discuss which orthodontic treatment option is best for you.
