Braces in the New Year Can Give You a Straighter Smile You Have Always Wanted!

New Year is a perfect time to achieve your desired goals. Getting braces is one of the common New Year's resolutions.

Why Do I Need To Get Braces?

Braces can help straighten your teeth, align your bite, and improve the appearance of your smile. If your teeth are misaligned and affecting the way you talk or eat, braces can correct problems so you can enjoy having a beautiful and healthy smile for the rest of your life.

Crooked teeth can cause several oral health issues. The misalignment can make cleaning difficult as food gets stuck in between the teeth. Food that builds up around the tooth can lead to decay, while a misaligned bite can cause TMJ disorder. A bad bite can also cause headaches or cause teeth to chip and break as you chew your food. Braces can address these issues by straightening your teeth and improving your mouth's function.

While metal braces are the most cost-effective option to get the results you want, there are other options available too. Ceramic braces are clear and less visible on your teeth than metal braces. Lingual braces are placed on the back of your teeth so that they can't be seen when you smile. Invisalign uses a series of aligners to straighten your teeth gradually over the course of several months. 

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Orthodontic treatment usually takes anywhere from six to twenty months, depending on the severity level and age of the patient's teeth. Braces work by applying consistent pressure to the teeth, which slowly moves them into place over time. During orthodontic treatment, patients should visit their dentist at least every four to six weeks. Patients may also have to wear elastic bands or headgear to further apply pressure to move their teeth faster or further customize the treatment plan.

Braces are a very effective way to correct misalignment and spacing issues for patients of all ages. By wearing braces, patients are able to enjoy a straighter smile that is easier to keep clean, leading to better oral health over the long term. 

What Are Traditional Braces?

Traditional braces are metal brackets and wires that sit on the front surface of the teeth. They are a great option if the patient has a mild misalignment of the teeth and jaw. Traditional braces usually require an orthodontist to tighten the wires on a regular basis, which gradually moves the teeth into the desired position. If a patient is in need of major orthodontic correction, traditional braces may not be the best option. However, if they are suitable for the patient's alignment issue, they are typically the most economical option. Patients can also choose colored bands on their braces, which can help make their orthodontic treatment more fun!

What Are Invisible Braces?

Invisible braces are the newest kind of braces that allow you to straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets. The treatment involves wearing a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth using a unique set of clear, custom-created aligners for every patient. Each aligner moves the teeth just a little bit at a time until you eventually have a perfect smile! Call your dentist to see if invisible braces might be right for you!