ORTHODONTICS
WHAT IS ORTHODONTICS?
Orthodontics is one of nine recognized dental specialties of the American Dental Association. Orthodontic care is appropriate for children, adolescents and adults and involves the use of appliances. The appliances can be fixed or removable. Braces are attached to the teeth whereas removable appliances are put in and taken out by the patient. These devices can be used to:s
Straighten teeth
Straighten teeth
Close unsightly gaps
Bring teeth and lips into proper alignment
DO BRACES HURT?
Generally, braces do not hurt. However, after certain visits, teeth may become sore. In these situations, over the counter pain medications should help ease the discomfort. Many patients do not feel any soreness at all!
HOW LONG IS THE TREATMENT?
Treatment time depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic needs. In general, the treatment time can range anywhere from 10 to 30 months.
DO YOU OFFER CLEAR BRACES?
Yes. We do offer ceramic braces and Invisalign, but they might not be applicable to every situation. Your individual treatment options will be discussed during the initial Orthodontic consultation.
WHAT IS INVISALIGN?
Invisalign is the virtually invisible way to straighten your teeth and achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Using advanced 3D computer-imaging technology, Invisalign depicts your complete treatment plan, from the initial position of your teeth to the final desired position. Then a series of clear aligners are custom-made for your teeth to move them little by little. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before being replaced by the next in the series, gradually moving towards the projected final position.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF INVISALIGN?
The convenience and ease of use of the Invisalign system has been effective in giving hundreds of thousands of people amazing new smiles. Here are some advantages of Invisalign:
- No metal wires or bands to irritate your mouth
- Flexibility to eat and drink what you want during treatment by simply removing the aligners
- Remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would for fresh breath and to maintain good oral hygiene
- View your virtual results and treatment plan even before you even begin treatment
- Most people won’t notice you’re in treatment
- Does not disrupt your lifestyle
HOW LONG DOES INVISALIGN TREATMENT TAKE?
The total duration of treatment depends on the complexity of the treatment and is generally comparable to that of traditional braces. Typically treatment can last between 6 and 18 months. During your consultation, your Invisalign Provider can provide you with more detailed information and also determine if you are a candidate.
WILL I NEED A RETAINER ONCE MY INVISALIGN TREATMENT IS COMPLETE?
Absolutely. A retainer is used to hold the teeth in their new position and is required after completion of Invisalign treatment. In many cases your last aligner will be your temporary retainer, until your retention option is determined.