Orthodontics Q & A
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on teeth and jaw position and alignment problems. Your orthodontist at Glenwood Dental Care works with you at all stages of your orthodontic treatment, from early pre-orthodontic evaluations for kids to Invisalign® or braces for patients of all ages.
What problems can the orthodontist help with?
Some of the most commonly treated orthodontic issues include:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
If you're dealing with one of these issues or other teeth or jaw alignment problems, your orthodontist can help you get a more functional and attractive smile through customized orthodontic treatment.
What kind of braces are available?
There are a variety of braces options, including:
- Metal braces: traditional braces with metal brackets and wires
- Ceramic braces: similar to metal braces, but the brackets and wires are tooth-colored
- Six Month Smiles®: clear braces that shift your teeth using low-force in about six months
- FastBraces®: braces that shift crown and root simultaneously in about three months
Each type of braces has its advantages and drawbacks. However, you might want to straighten your teeth without wearing braces at all, which is where Invisalign comes in.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a teeth-straightening system that's sometimes called clear braces, though it's actually completely different than any type of braces. Invisalign uses clear plastic trays called aligners to shift your teeth. Aligners are custom-fabricated for your teeth, which means they fit over your teeth perfectly and aren't obvious.
Invisalign is removable, but you need to wear your aligners for about 22 hours a day to get the best results. Invisalign is a very popular choice for both teens and adults since it allows you to correct orthodontic issues without being obvious about it.
Do I need a retainer after braces?
Yes. Retainers are an essential part of your orthodontic treatment after braces. Invisalign has its own unique type of clear retainer, and this retainer is just as crucial for Invisalign as it is for braces. Your retainer keeps your teeth in their new positions, so it's well worth wearing to keep your smile straight and beautiful.
Book an appointment with an expert Glenwood Dental Care orthodontist online or via phone now to get the smile you’ve always wanted.