Why Braces
For Children and Adults
| Why Braces
| Two-Phase Treatment
| Ortho Dictionary
Retention Protocol
Why Braces
For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. Orthodontic care often improves the patient’s self-image, but there are other important reasons to consider orthodontic treatment. It is much easier to clean and care for teeth when they are properly positioned. Also, correcting the bite leads to improved chewing and speech and can reduce wear of the teeth. A proper bite can also decrease stress of the supporting structures (bone and jaw joints). During your treatment, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible. After your braces come off, we know you'll feel more confident about your beautiful new smile!
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded (or glued) to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to a corrected position. This 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 color. You can also 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.
Duration of Treatment
Treatment time typically ranges from one to three 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 case completion may differ from the original estimate. The patient's diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands or other removable appliance is an important factor in achieving the most efficient treatment. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as six months.