How Braces Work

If you have crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, there are a variety of options to help straighten your teeth including braces and retainers. Schedule an appointment with our dentist to talk about the options available to you. Depending on the severity of your orthodontic issue will depend on the treatments used.

If you opt for traditional straightening, your orthodontist can prescribe an appliance specific to your needs. Traditional braces involve brackets that are cemented to the tops of every tooth and connected by wires. The teeth slowly move into the correct position over time. This treatment can take anywhere from 6 months to a couple years to complete depending on your needs.

As the teeth move into place, the bone changes shape as pressure is applied. The brackets are like handles holding the arch wires that move the teeth into the correct position. You will visit your dental professional monthly to get these brackets and wires tightened as the teeth move and shift. Some of the adjustments might cause soreness in the mouth, however over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol can help relieve the pain.

There are several types of braces including stainless steel, tooth-colored ceramic or even plastic aligners. The plastic aligner option is very popular because they are almost invisible and removable. However, this option is not meant for everyone. Treatments are also available to both children and adults. The main differences between these treatments are that certain corrections in adults may require more than just braces alone.

In addition to brackets and wires, elastics or rubber bands can be used between the upper and lower teeth. They apply pressure to move the upper teeth against the lower teeth to make sure the bite is properly aligned. Headgear is also an additional gadget used to move the upper molars back in the mouth. Not everyone will need headgear however. This will depend on the severity of your orthodontic needs.

There’s also a new option called “mini-braces” which are much smaller than traditional ones and may be an option for certain people. Discuss all these options with your dental professional so you can achieve the best smile possible. No matter which option you choose, the treatment is progressive and will take some time for the teeth to shift into the right place. Rest assure that you will end up with a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime. 

Advantages of Orthodontic Treatment

Braces are not a vanity project. Even ceramic braces or Invisalign products are not just about better smiles. Mouth structures require a delicate balance, and falling out of it can disrupt eating and speaking. Poor habits that begin in childhood, not to mention genetic flaws that are nobody’s fault, can lead to all kinds of bite issues that need addressing. 

The dental term for bad bite is malocclusion. These include the following: 

Crossbite—one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth toward the tongue
Overbite—lower teeth reach the tissue of the upper teeth
Underbite—lower jaw is longer than the upper jaw
Specific to children, other issues can include protrusion of the upper incisors brought about by thumbsucking, and adult teeth erupting out of position. 

The sooner these issues are treated, the more trouble you and your Northridge dentist can dodge. Braces are still a very relevant product, especially since upgrades have improved them visually. Braces pull the teeth into proper alignment using brackets and archwires or, in the case of self-ligating braces, metal clips. Braces handle deeper orthodontic issues as well, and can manipulate a problematic jaw. 

Invisalign straightens teeth with clear plastic aligners that keep your treatment virtually invisible to the public. Invisalign may not get the necessary results for severe cases of malocclusion. That data is still out. However, it remains a recommended treatment for a smile without significant structural defects. 

In any orthodontic scenario, there is a chance of relapse. Teeth can loosen and bone can erode. Teeth can be lost, and the nearby teeth encroach on vacancies. Maybe the last advantage of orthodontics is their continued application throughout life, even for the very old. As lifespans expand, older patients are coming in for orthodontic work. Retreatment may be even more necessary for patients who don’t use their retainer as described, even if it’s thirty years down the line. 

For more, contact our expert in orthodontics in Northridge.

Brushing ceramic braces

If your child is considering getting ceramic braces, they may be curious about the daily routine involved. For starters, ceramic braces are very similar to standard metal braces, beyond the fact that they are not nearly as visible. 

Ceramic braces are made up of clear or tooth-colored brackets that keep the archwire in place. Contrary to the belief of some patients, ceramic braces do not stain easily. In fact, the only materials that are particularly prone to staining are the clear rubber ligatures used. For certain self-ligating braces, rubber bands may not be necessary. In order to keep your rubber bands stain-free, you will want to brush after meals and enjoy beverages known to stain through a straw. 

When you care for your ceramic braces, be sure to brush at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Colorless mouthwash is also a great idea to address hard to reach areas. As always with braces, it is paramount to floss regularly and make sure there are no food particles resting in between brackets. Ceramic brackets are quite durable and will stay in place as long as you avoid certain problem foods, such as hard candy and caramel. If you are diligent about taking care of your ceramic braces, you will achieve beautiful results.

Contact our orthodontist in Los Angeles to set up your consultation.

Benefits of Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces are an innovative style of braces that can straighten your teeth more comfortably and discreetly than conventional metal braces. Rather than using elastics to secure the wire to the brackets, the brackets are designed to allow the wire to move freely. This reduces friction, and you can see results faster. Our San Francisco dentist can help you decide if self-ligating braces are right for you. 

While traditional braces are effective for many types of orthodontic problems, adults often want alternative options that are more discreet, more comfortable and more convenient. Self-ligating braces are designed to not just work faster but require fewer visits to our office for adjustments and tightening. The brackets also tend to be smaller and less visible, which appeals to adults and image-conscious teens. We can also use clear brackets for a virtually invisible look. 

Most patients who are candidates for conventional braces are also candidates for self-ligating braces, which have broad eligibility. They are less likely to necessitate extractions than other types of orthodontic treatments, and they can give you the smile you want with less disruption to your daily routine. If you are interested in learning more about self-ligating braces in San Francisco, we can help. Call today to schedule a consultation with a member of our dental team.

Damon Braces and How They Work

Some orthodontic cases are best addressed with traditional style braces. Many patients are disappointed that they cannot undergo their orthodontic experience with a less noticeable option, such as Invisalign. Fortunately, our orthodontist in Los Angeles offers a type of braces that are just as effective as traditional ones, while being much less noticeable.

Damon braces are self-ligating. This means that the wires are able to adjust themselves according to the needs of the teeth. Self-ligating wires mean that patients get to spend less time in the dentist’s chair so they can be tightened. This also eliminates uncomfortable pressure and pain that often come from these tightening appointments.

Patients are also happy to learn that this type of wires allow for smaller brackets, making for a less noticeable appliance. Our orthodontist may even be able to apply ceramic brackets, which blend in with the teeth. While appointments with our dentist are still necessary, they will be less frequent.

Your orthodontic treatment with braces does not have to be uncomfortable and annoying. If you would like to find out if you are a candidate for Damon braces, schedule an appointment with our orthodontist today.

What Braces Can Do

Braces can have such amazing effects on the smile that its other benefits are sometimes overlooked. With orthodontics, people gain some important changes that can help them for a lifetime. Here are some of the specific and general things that patients can get with braces from our dentist in Houston.

Specific Changes to the Bite

The bite can be improved in countless ways with braces. For example, braces can be effective at correcting overbite, underbite, tooth rotation, crossbite, underbite, gaps, and overcrowding. Symmetry of the bite, an important part of a beautiful smile, can also be developed through orthodontics.

General Improvements From Braces

Beyond better looks, braces enhance comfort and oral health. A better fit between the upper and lower teeth aids teeth in both of these ways. Lower jaw strain can result, making TMJ less likely to occur. Plaque tends to collect less on straight teeth, and patients are less likely to suffer tooth wear, so risks of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss are all reduced.

Oral health, comfort, and appearance can be improved markedly with braces. To learn more about the things that different types of braces can do, patients can schedule a consultation with our braces dentist in Houston.

How are Incognito Braces Made?

Some patients do not make good candidates for more modern orthodontic options such as Invisalign, due to the nature or severity of their structural flaws. This means that metal braces are the most effective choice. However, many patients do not prefer braces, as they are very bulky and highly noticeable. These issues are eliminated with Incognito braces. Incognito braces are a lot like traditional ones, but are placed on the lingual side, or back surfaces of the teeth.

The process of getting Incognito braces is simple. Our orthodontists in LA will take impressions of your teeth to ensure your braces will fit you perfectly. These impressions will be sent to a lab, where your brackets will be designed specifically for you using the latest 3D technology. These brackets are gold casted in order to fit flatly against the teeth, making them even more comfortable and less noticeable to others.

Incognito also offers a Lite option, for those who do not need a full treatment. This utilizes only six brackets on both the upper and lower arches to straighten out and align the middle teeth. Interested patients can schedule a consultation appointment at our office to learn more.

Tips for Invisalign Treatment

Straightening the teeth and correcting the bite with orthodontics can be a difficult time. While everyone wants a perfect looking and healthy smile, not everyone is as excited about what it takes to get there. Knowing the ins and outs of treatment with Invisalign can help make this experience easier.

Tip One: Wear your aligners

Though your aligners are easily removable, it is important that they remain in for the instructed amount of hours per day – between twenty and twenty-four. They should be removed only to eat and clean the teeth. Failure to wear them enough can result in a prolonged treatment time.

Tip Two: Do not hide your aligners

Your aligners will be see-through, but may not always be pretty to look at. You might be compelled to hide them in a napkin while you eat to keep them out of view, but this can be dangerous. Many patients have accidentally thrown their aligners away by doing this. Prevent the lengthy process of getting a replacement aligner by keeping a case on you at all times.

Tip Three: Listen to our LA Invisalign dentist

While you may not want to follow some rules, they are always in your best interest. Dodge difficulties in your treatment by listening to the instructions you dentist gives.

Is Invisalign Worth It?

The decision to get orthodontic treatment can be a hard one to make. You may really want that beautiful smile, but it takes a big commitment to get it there. Our Invisalign doctor will tell you that opting for orthodontic treatment is always the best choice. Here are some reasons that might convince you that Invisalign is worth the work.

1)    Aesthetics
Crooked teeth and spacing issues can really affect the look of the smile. Issues such as these can make you look years older, as well as unhealthy. You might find that you are seen differently in the workplace and in social situations with a healthier and better looking smile.

2)    Health
While it is easy to see orthodontic flaws as strictly cosmetic concerns, they can actually have a big effect on your dental and oral health. Crowded teeth create hard to clean spaces where bacteria and plaque can build up, which leads to cavities. Furthermore, misalignments can cause complications with the jaw, such as TMJ.

3)    Easy treatment
It is important to keep in mind that Invisalign makes treatment as convenient as possible. It might seem like orthodontic work is a big task to take on, but this option allows you to eat and clean your teeth just like before, providing an easier process.

Contact us to schedule a consultation and see if Invisalign is right for you.

Who Should Get Invisalign?

Every orthodontic patient today wants Invisalign. It’s not secret why – Invisalign aligners are seamless, removable, and invisible. These features are great benefits that most other orthodontic appliances do not offer. While it is an option for most people, it is unfortunately not one for everybody. Here is a look at who should get Invisalign.

Those who want flexibility

Not everyone is good at having a permanent fixture to their teeth. Some patients hide their smiles when they are happy because they don’t want their braces to be seen. Invisalign offers a much more flexible experience. The aligners can be removed easily by the patient, perfect for those who do not want to avoid their favorite foods.

Those who need to look a certain way

Younger patients may have a serious problem with showing up to school with a metal mouth. We can help them avoid the embarrassment with these see-through aligners. Professionals in the work place may also want to maintain a level of maturity, and braces can make the wearer look younger. Invisalign eliminates that problem.

Those with straight-forward orthodontic flaws

Invisalign is best at correctly mild to moderate cases of crooked teeth and spacing issues.

Talk to our dentist about Invisalign Full, Invisalign Express, and Invisalign Teen.

Clear Braces and What You Should Know about Them

Clear braces, such as Invisalign, are what many patients seek for discreet teeth straightening today. While the basic working principle remains the same, these braces differ broadly from other types of orthodontic appliances. Here is what you should know about clear orthodontic options.

They Are More Comfortable

Compared to metal braces, clear ones are far less likely to cause abrasion in the mouth. This is thanks to the fact that clear orthodontics do not have any brackets or wires. Especially for athletes, this comfort is often a major advantage.

They Straighten Teeth More Quickly

Teeth are moved more quickly by clear orthodontics than by those that use brackets and wires. Whereas metal braces work in about two years for most patients, clear orthodontics work in an average of fifteen months, and many patients finish in just a year.

They Are More Discreet

The discretion that clear orthodontics provides is easily their main selling point. Simply put, no other treatment comes close to these braces in terms of how little they stand out.

Besides Invisalign Full, our dentist offers Invisalign Teen and Invisalign Express for younger patients and those who need minor corrections, respectively. You can schedule a consultation with our Rocklin orthodontist to learn more about what clear orthodontics offer.

Types of Orthodontic Appliances

Straight, evenly spaced teeth are vital to a healthy and good looking smile. Unfortunately, not everyone’s teeth grow in this way. Orthodontic treatment is available to correct these and other issues. This is possible today through several types of appliances. Our cosmetic dentist in Houston offers traditional metal braces, Invisalign, and ceramic braces.

Metal Braces

This is the form of orthodontics that most people are familiar with. It is comprised of metal brackets bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth, and a metal wire that is threaded through them. Braces work by our dentist tightening these wires, which pull the teeth into place. Treatment typically takes between eighteen and twenty-four months.

Invisalign

This is this most popular type of treatment today. Invisalign treatment consists of sets of aligners that fit like mouth guards. Patients appreciate their durability, seamlessness, and invisibility. They work by slightly pushing the teeth into place a little bit at a time with each aligner. Our orthodontic dentist can inform you if you are a candidate for Invisalign.

Ceramic Braces

Some patients do require the more traditional type of orthodontics, but still wish for a less noticeable appliance. Ceramic braces work exactly like metal braces, but are made with ceramic material, and are therefore less noticeable.  

What Can Braces Do?

Many patients get braces in order to improve their smile. While this description of what braces do is accurate, it is not very specific. Here are some of the direct and indirect actions of orthodontics.

Direct Effects of Orthodontics

Orthodontics works on many types of bite irregularities, including overbite, underbite, and crossbite. Teeth can be moved vertically or rotated by orthodontics, and teeth that are overcrowded or spaced too far apart can be moved as necessary. With additional orthodontic appliances, our dentist can also expand the palate, move the jaw, and achieve other improvements.

Indirect Effects of Orthodontics

The improvements that orthodontics brings deliver indirect enhancements to appearance, comfort, and oral health. A smile can be made more symmetrical and appealing overall with bite correction. With a better fit between the upper and lower teeth, patients enjoy more comfort when they speak and chew. Cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss all are less likely to occur after orthodontics are used.

Several orthodontic treatments are available today, and their capabilities are fairly similar and equally permanent. You can schedule a consultation with our orthodontist in Houston to learn more about having your teeth straightened at Antoine Dental Center.

Most Used Orthodontic Options

Orthodontic problems typically involve improper bite or spacing between the teeth. The most common treatment options involve the use of braces. Braces can be used to shift the position of the teeth for a straighter, more attractive smile. Braces can also be used to reposition teeth for a proper bite.

In the past, the most commonly utilized option was that of metal braces. Metal brackets are attached to the teeth with wires. The braces are tightened on a regular basis to gradually shift teeth into proper position. Today’s metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than in the past. There is now also the option of clear braces. While metal wires are still used, the brackets that attach to the teeth are clear.

A newer treatment option in orthodontics that is quickly gaining popularity is the use of Invisalign clear plastic aligners. These aligners are worn nearly all of the time and are only removed while eating or cleaning the teeth. The patient will wear a set of aligners for the specified time period then will return to the office to get a new aligner. Many different aligners will be used to slowly shift teeth to their desired position.

Different Orthodontics Options

In the not so distant past, the only orthodontic appliance available was braces, much to the chagrin of most patients. Orthodontics today, however, is very different. Patients now often have their choice between several different appliance options. Here is a short description of the most popular choices.

Braces: despite the fact that braces are rarely the first choice for most patients, they are still the best at straightening the teeth and correcting the bite. They are comprised of a metal bracket on the front surface of each tooth, and a metal wire that runs through them. The wires are tightened from the back in order to create pressure and pull the teeth together.

Invisalign: typically the first choice for patients, Invisalign is constructed very differently than braces. Invisalign treatment consists of aligners, which are shaped much like mouth guards, and push the teeth into place. Patients love that these aligners are removable, comfortable, and nearly invisible.

Damon braces: this option is also great for patients who wish for a more discreet option. They work very similarly to traditional braces, but feature brackets made of ceramic. Ceramic is often used in dentistry due to the fact that it is very similar in color to dental enamel.

Other orthodontic services available from our cosmetic dentist in San Francisco include self-ligating braces and AcceleDent.

Choosing between Braces and Lumineers

Patients today often have several choices when it comes to straightening the teeth. Not too long ago, traditional metal braces were the only option for correcting crooked teeth and spacing issues. Today, patients can choose between a wide variety of orthodontic and cosmetic treatments. If you are considering perfecting your smile, you should know as much as you can about your options, including the commonly chosen braces and Lumineers.

Braces vs. Lumineers

Braces are a reliable orthodontic appliance than can address numerable flaws, such as crooked teeth, spacing issues, and incorrect bites. Patients do not always appreciate the look of this bulky metal appliance, but variations, like Incognito and ceramic braces, are also available and less noticeable. If you are looking to permanently correct the flaws in you smile, braces are likely the best choice for you.

Lumineers can achieve similar looking results as brace s, but in a very different way. They are a type of veneer that are bonded to the teeth, but thin enough to be removed if needed. Lumineers can effectively mask crooked teeth and spacing issues. Treatment from our Los Angeles Lumineers specialist may be the best option if you are looking for a cosmetic and removable solution to certain faults in the smile.

How Effective is Invisalign in Aligning the Teeth?

Invisalign can treat a variety of dental cases, including crossbite, overbite, and excessively gapped or crowded teeth. Since most patients want to see what they get beforehand, most providers keep smile galleries, with before and after Invisalign pictures. This comparison is still the best way to personalize the effectiveness of Invisalign, as you can easily find a case resembling your own.

Invisalign uses a push mechanism to straighten the teeth. Plastic aligners, or trays, exert this force over a series of interlocking exchanges, during which you trade out your aligners for a new set every two weeks. If you wear the aligners as instructed— twenty hours a day in most cases—you essentially qualify for the next set, or next stage of your treatment.

During treatment, you can eat and drink whatever you want. The lifestyle interference you expect from traditional braces is minimal with Invisalign. As long as you commit to the program, which includes regular brushing and flossing and making sure your trays stay clean, the program will work for you.
The finishing touch of Invisalign is the retainer, which prevents slippage in the months after treatment.

Ask your Los Angeles Invisalign provider if this treatment is the most effective choice for you.

Importance of Orthodontic Treatments at an Early Age

Experts advise parents to bring their children in for an orthodontic evaluation around the age of seven. This is right around when they start losing their “baby teeth”. This may seem like too early of an age to be thinking of this kind of thing, but it is actually the perfect time.

The truth is, it is never too early to start saving for orthodontics if they are to be needed. One of our orthodontists in Rocklin should be able to tell you at this time if braces will be necessary in the future, based on how the new teeth are growing in and if the patient has any dental-related bad habits, such as habitual thumb sucking. The patient will not likely need to begin treatment right away. It is vital for all of the permanent teeth to come in first.

If necessary, treatment will likely begin during the early teenage years. This has proven to be the best time for straightening the teeth and correcting the bite. All of the permanent teeth have come in, but the jaw is still developing, making it easier to be adjusted as needed.

Waiting for an older age before getting orthodontic treatment can make the process longer and more complicated. Early orthodontic treatments are the best way to create a perfect smile.