Types of Braces
Each patient's orthodontic problem and their specific concerns are unique. We offer a full range of types of braces both fixed and removable and the very latest in wire technology to most effectively address the problems we see.
Braces fixed to the teeth are most commonly needed to correct major orthodontic problems. Fixed braces give us the optimal control over both tooth alignment and bite correction. Our standard fixed braces are self-ligating which means more comfort and greater efficiency for the patient. Variations of clear brackets, mini metal brackets, and even colored braces cover a wide range of patient wishes.
Of particular importance are the arch wires which create the tooth moving forces as they are attached to the brackets on the teeth. These high tech wires combined with the lower friction, self-ligating brackets have created a new day in comfort and efficiency for orthodontic patients.
We also use clear, removable appliances (such as Invisalign) to treat some problems. Removable appliances case selection is very important as there are significant limitations to consider.
Fixed Braces
Orthodontic movement uses gentle pressure to encourage teeth to move along a prescribed path into a new alignment.
Brackets bonded to teeth are simply a handle that is used to attach the tooth moving archwires. The wire is shaped in a prescribed form to shift your teeth to where they need to go. The wire places pressure on the brackets and the teeth causing the teeth to move.
Traditional brackets have used steel ligatures and rubber band ties to secure the wires in place. Our self-ligating brackets have eliminated the need for the higher friction plastic ties of traditional brackets. We use several systems - Time, Speed, and Damon - depending on the patients needs. However, we still see situations that the traditional braces perform better from some problems.
Invisalign and Clear Aligners
With some orthodontic problems, removable aligners is the clear way to straighten teeth without braces. Aligners are removable and less visible, which means you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing; and you can still eat and drink what you want. Also, you can brush and floss normally to maintain healthy gums and teeth; and there are no wires, metal or brackets to cause mouth abrasions.
Invisalign has significant limitations and case selection must be very judicious. Less than 20% of the problems we see can reasonably be addressed with Invisalign. Long term stability, detailed tooth movement, and control of the bite correciton are significant issues to address before using Invisalign. Thoughtful consideration of these issues often makes fixed braces the treatment of choice for best long term benefits.
What is Invisalign?
- Less visable way to straighten your teeth without braces.
- Series of clear, removable, custom-made Aligners.
- Uses no metal wires or brackets
- Custom-made for comfort.
How does Invisalign Work?
- Wear each set of Aligners for about two to three weeks.
- Remove only to eat, drink, brush and floss
- Your teeth will move gradually each week.
- Visit us every 8-10 weeks.
- Total treatment time average 6-15 months.
- Average number of Aligners is between 18 and 30.
Finishing Invisalign Treatment:
Fine finishing of alignment and optimum bite correction may require fixed braces as only fixed braces can routinely correct the full range of orthodontic problems.
Recent research has shown that Invisalign appliances worn to completion of treament accomplish on average 41% of the tooth movement desired and projected at the beginning of treatment.1 Recent research has also shown that the upper front teeth are more likely to move out of position follwoing Invisalign treatment than with traditional fixed braces treatment.2 Skillful appliance use with a variety of modifications may improve this 41% efficiency and result in patient satisfaction. Even so, Invisalign therapy is unlikely to achieve the traditional orthodontic standards of excellent occlusion, alignment and stability. Braces traditionally move teeth to produce precise tooth alignment, a beautiful smile and a good occlusion (bite) with maximum achievable stability of correction. Fixed braces give maximum control of the tooth movement needed to achieve all of these goals.
1How Well Does Invisalign Work? (American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, January 2009) Vol 135, No.1, pages 27-35
2 Invisalign and Traditional Orthodontic Treatment Postretention Outcomes. (Angle Orthodontist, 2007) Vol. 77, No.5, pages 864-869