Are your teeth crooked, gapped, or misaligned? Are you looking for ways to straighten them? Thanks to the advancements in dental technology, aligning teeth is now easier and more comfortable than ever, with several teeth straightening options available. Read on to get an idea of the common orthodontic treatment options and have answers to some of the frequently asked questions about orthodontic treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Treatments
- Who can benefit from orthodontic treatments?
Orthodontic treatments are commonly associated with children and teens, but adults can also benefit from them. Adults who did not have orthodontic treatment as a child or teens may benefit from braces later in life.
- Why do people have orthodontic treatments?
Orthodontic treatments help correct crooked teeth and misaligned bites. They also help fix dental issues, such as bite problems, overcrowding, gaps between teeth, and jaw misalignment.
- What are the different types of braces?
Traditional braces are the most common type of orthodontic appliance. They use a system of wires and brackets to gently move teeth into the desired position. Traditional braces work by applying pressure on the teeth to move them. This is a gradual process.
There are also clear options, which are virtually invisible. Invisalign and ClearCorrect are two of the most popular clear braces. These use a system of clear aligners to move the teeth into position. These aligners are removable.
- What are traditional braces?
Braces are orthodontic devices that can be affixed to the teeth. Once in place, they apply constant pressure on the teeth to move them into alignment. Braces consist of small brackets, a metal wire, and an elastic band. The brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth, and the rubber bands fit around each one to hold them in place. The wire runs through the brackets, applying pressure to the teeth to shift their positions.
- How do dental braces straighten teeth?
Dental braces help correct improperly aligned teeth, as well as straighten teeth that are crooked or crowded. Braces can also help to make your smile more uniform in appearance. Braces are one of the most common dental appliances prescribed.
Braces work by applying constant pressure to the teeth, causing them to move into the correct position. Once this happens, the braces are adjusted or replaced to continue applying pressure to the teeth. This pressure causes the bone in the jaw to reshape, also shifting the position of the teeth.
- What are Invisalign aligners?
Invisalign aligners are clear plastic trays that are custom-made to fit your teeth. The trays are removable, so you can take them out to brush your teeth and eat.
Each tray is worn for about two weeks, and during that time, your teeth gradually shift into the desired position. Every two weeks, you will wear another set of aligners, and this will continue until your treatment is complete. Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, which helps you maintain your confidence throughout the treatment process.
- How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Orthodontic treatments can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the patient’s specific orthodontic needs. When you first meet with your orthodontist, he or she will be able to give you a more accurate idea of how long your orthodontic treatment will take. Many patients choose to get Invisalign® treatment, which can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year.
To learn more about our orthodontic treatment options, visit our Daniel Tebbi, D.M.D. office at 16661 Ventura Blvd Ste 620, Encino, CA 91436. You can also reach us at (818) 789-2034.