Do you have straight teeth? Everyone wants a straighter, more even smile. Straight teeth look better, are healthier, and are easier to keep clean. Misaligned teeth can cause problems such as damage to your teeth and jawbones. It's best to treat alignment issues in childhood, while the teeth are still growing, but orthodontic treatment can benefit patients of all ages. With an on-staff orthodontist, our dental clinic can meet all your family's orthodontic needs.
Metal braces are the traditional method for straightening and realigning teeth and they are still in use today. There are a variety of metal braces that can be used, depending on your needs, but they all work by the same principle; they all slowly move your teeth into proper alignment. Braces are typically left on for around 2 years, with frequent adjustments to ensure your teeth are healthy and moving into their new positions. After your braces come off, you may need to wear a retainer for a period to protect and hold your teeth while they settle into their new positions.
Invisalign plastic aligners are an alternative to braces. They are clear plastic trays that are custom moulded to your teeth. When they are in place, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible. They are also advantageous because they can be removed for cleaning and eating, unlike braces.Like braces, aligners are used for approximately 2 years. During that time the aligners will be replaced every two weeks. Each new set of aligners is slightly different from the set before it, so over time your teeth are repositioned. After your teeth are in their new positions, you may need to use a retainer.
