Orthodontic Treatment: Align or Straighten Teeth
Orthodontics is the dental practice that aligns or straightens one’s teeth. Orthodontics can noticeably improve your appearance and your dental health. At AXIS Dental Group, we have orthodontists on staff, making it even easier for you to achieve that perfect smile.
Orthodontists are trained dental specialists that can change the positioning of your teeth, improving your smile and the way your jaw functions. The first step in getting any Orthodontic treatment is to meet with an orthodontist for a consultation.
The Orthodontist will review your condition, discuss the various options available to you, identify the optimal solution and then create a treatment plan that’s best suited to your needs. The length of time, cost and what the procedure will involve are some of the issues that would be discussed at this appointment.
Braces and Invisalign® (Clear Braces)
Braces are mechanical devices designed to deliberately apply pressure to your teeth. The pressure is applied over an extended period of time, resulting in the realignment of your teeth. Results vary based on how the pressure is applied and for what length of time.
Braces are made up of a series of brackets that can be made of metal, plastic or ceramic. Thin wire strips, known as arch wires connect the brackets and guide the movement of your teeth. Ligatures are the small rubber rings (or wires) that fasten the arch wires to the brackets.
Depending on your case, your orthodontist may use other devices such as springs or elastics to apply pressure to the arch wires to either maintain their original shape or reposition specific teeth. You may also require additional removable or fixed appliances to aid in the development of your jaw or bite.
One of the more recent developments in Orthodontic care is the Invisalign® brand of clear braces. As the name implies, the major benefit of this treatment is that these braces are virtually invisible to others, reducing the stigma associated with wearing braces.
Caring For Your Braces
It’s very important to clean and maintain your braces on a regular basis as instructed by your orthodontist and dental hygienist. Braces have many grooves and nooks where food can become lodged. This may not only lead to cavities and gum disease, but may also hinder your appearance when talking or smiling.
Diet is another important component when caring for your braces. Your orthodontist and hygienist will educate you on what foods are suitable to eat and which are damaging to your teeth and braces. You’ll probably be given a special brush or other aids to help you keep your teeth and braces clean and healthy!
If you don’t brush your teeth while wearing your braces, they can develop cavities or permanent white or dark spots. While this won’t be very attractive or pleasing on its own, it will also counteract all the time, effort and money you’ve invested in getting braces in the first place!
Finally, it’s important that you don’t impede or negatively impact the progress of your Orthodontic treatment. Keeping your appointments and following your orthodontist’s treatment instructions are critical to ensuring you stay on track. After all, you don’t want to wear your braces any longer than absolutely necessary, do you?
You can discover more about Orthodontics and the services we provide by contacting our office. We’ll set up an appointment with one of our orthodontists for a personal consultation.