Traditional Metal or Clear Braces
We have both options to fit your lifestyle. Dental braces have come a long way since they were invented in the 1800’s. Today, we are privy to a bevy of tooth-straightening options, each of which offers different benefits. Currently, the most popular types of braces used include:
- Metal Braces – These are traditional braces most often seen in children and teenagers. Metal braces are the most affordable and use a system of brackets and wires to move the teeth over time.
- Ceramic Braces – These braces work like traditional metal braces, except that the brackets bonded to the teeth are made of ceramic. This helps prevent staining, and they can also be color-matched to blend with the teeth.
Invisalign
We are experienced in these removable custom-fit aligners that straighten teeth without traditional braces. Invisalign is an orthodontic appliance system used to inconspicuously treat crooked and crowded teeth in adults and teens.
This modern take on braces features a system of clear aligner trays that are worn at all times with the exception of during meals and when brushing or flossing. The trays are custom fitted to the teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable when laughing, talking, and interacting with other people. Patients receive a sequence of trays, each of which is slightly different than the one before. The aligners provide slight resistance to the teeth, forcing them to move into alignment over time.
With Invisalign, adults and teens can achieve the smiles they’ve always wanted without feeling self-conscious about the mode of treatment.
Early Interceptive Treatment
(Children Orthodontics)
Early treatment (starting at around the age of 7) to intercept or correct unfavorable jaw growth. The majority of patients undergoing orthodontic care are children and teens.
When kids are young, their jaws are constantly growing to accommodate new teeth. It is during this time that the teeth are easily moved, allowing for a shorter treatment time – especially in patients who undergo early treatment.
Braces, retainers, and spacers are just some of the orthodontic appliances commonly used in children’s orthodontics. Although not all kids need orthodontic treatment, all kids need exams at an early age.
Some signs that a child may eventually require orthodontic treatment include:
- Jaw is disproportionate to the face
- Has a habit of frequent thumb-sucking
- Chronically breathes from the mouth rather than the nose
- Primary teeth fall out too soon or too late
- Exhibits malocclusion (overbite/underbite)
- Visible crowding