Orthodontics

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is an area of dental practice focused on correcting problems with the way your teeth align. When teeth don’t meet properly when you bite down, undue pressure is placed on some teeth. Alignment issues are also often an aesthetic concern that can make it hard to feel confident about your smile. 

Dr. Donald has extensive training in orthodontics, and is experienced with many different systems. He can assess your smile, discuss your treatment goals, and guide you toward the options that offer the best results. 

What are some orthodontic treatment options?

Traditional metal braces remain a popular option. Today’s system uses smaller brackets with flatter profiles and are more comfortable than the braces available to previous generations. Fixed appliances can be cemented to your teeth as part of your braces treatment plan. 

If you’re searching for a less visible alignment option, you might want to try clear or tooth-colored braces. The brackets in these systems are made of ceramic or plastic, and the only visible metal is in the thin treatment wire. 

Lingual braces are even more difficult to visually detect. The brackets in these systems are secured to the back sides of your teeth, so your smile remains the same as it slowly shifts into optimal alignment. 

Tray-based alignment systems like Invisalign® use removable plastic trays to place gentle pressure on your teeth, slowly moving them into a healthier alignment. Once in place, it’s difficult for anyone to tell you’re wearing your aligners. 

Am I a good candidate for clear aligners?

Tray-based alignment systems can improve many of the same alignment issues as traditional metal braces. Unlike systems that use brackets affixed to your teeth, however, tray-based alignment requires your active participation. 

The aligner trays only work while you’re wearing them. You need to wear your aligners around the clock, removing them only while eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. 

You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every couple of weeks or so. A degree of soreness is normal in the first day or two of wearing a new set of aligners, but it’s important that you keep them in throughout the day and night. If treatment compliance is likely to be an issue, you may find traditional braces or lingual braces to be a better option. 

If you’d like more information about orthodontic treatment options, call the Cisco Dental office to set up a visit. Online scheduling is also available and can be done from the comfort of home at your convenience.