Orthodontics is a type of dentistry that helps people achieve healthier smiles by correcting problems with their teeth and bites. They can help fix issues like crooked teeth, overcrowded teeth, underbite, cross bites, and jaw strain caused by chewing.
Straighter teeth are easier to keep clean and less likely to trap harmful bacteria that lead to gum disease or tooth decay. Additionally, misaligned teeth can cause headaches and shoulder or back pain due to strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Braces
Traditionally, braces are used to correct crooked teeth and an improper bite. They use constant, controlled pressure to slowly move the teeth into more desirable positions. In addition to enhancing a patient’s smile, orthodontic treatment can alleviate jaw pain, improve chewing function and speech clarity, and reduce tooth decay.
A patient may need to wear a retainer after treatment to maintain the new position of the teeth. Daily brushing and flossing are essential to ensure that food debris does not accumulate between the teeth or around the brackets. An orthodontist will provide guidance for these procedures.
Invisalign®
Invisalign is a discreet and convenient alternative to braces that straightens teeth without metal wires and brackets. This advanced orthodontic treatment uses clear, customized aligners to shift teeth gradually and correct crowding, gaps, and mild bite problems. Invisalign is suitable for teens and adults with good oral hygiene practices and responsible wear habits.
Crooked teeth can lead to an uneven bite, which puts unnecessary strain on your jaw and may cause your teeth to wear down faster. Invisalign corrects your bite, helping to protect and preserve your teeth for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Some patients experience discomfort with Invisalign, similar to that of traditional braces. However, this typically subsides within a few days after each tray change. Your Maple Dental Health orthodontist will recommend products that can help reduce discomfort or sensitivity.
Accelerated Treatment
Many adults are hesitant to undergo orthodontic treatment due to the length of time it takes to see results. However, accelerated orthodontics methods like Propel and the AcceleDent System allow patients to enjoy straight teeth in a fraction of the traditional treatment time.
These accelerated orthodontics techniques use micro-osteoperforations, vibrations, or in some cases a minor surgical procedure to stimulate bone growth and assist tooth movement. They can be used with metal, ceramic, or lingual braces.
For patients who want to align their smiles before an important event, such as a wedding or graduation, accelerated treatment can provide the confidence boost they need to feel great about their appearance. This is especially true for teenagers and young adults, who may value a swifter process that can help them complete their education or start new jobs with a more confident smile.
Invisalign Teen®
Invisalign Teen offers eligible teens a discreet and comfortable option for straightening their smile. We use the same technology as traditional braces to create clear aligners that fit snugly over their teeth. Every two weeks, they swap out their aligners for the next set in the series, which moves their teeth a little bit further into place. For complex cases, we can add SmartForce attachments and precision wings to help achieve their ideal bite.
They can also enjoy a more varied diet without having to avoid foods like popcorn or gum. They just need to remember to remove their aligners before eating and brush and floss before reinserting them. Plus, there are no metal brackets to break or poking wires to worry about!
Invisalign Express®
Designed for patients with minor crowding or spacing, Invisalign Express offers quick and efficient results. This treatment uses fewer aligners and can be completed in as little as six months, which is significantly shorter than the typical duration of traditional Invisalign treatments.
This streamlined orthodontic treatment is ideal for patients with mild alignment concerns such as slightly crooked teeth or small spacing gaps. Invisalign Express utilizes a series of clear, custom-made aligners that shift your smile gradually over time. Your orthodontist will provide you with regular checkups to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.
During the treatment process, some adults may experience lisping as their tongue adapts to aligners. However, these temporary side effects will resolve within a week or two as your teeth adjust to their new positions.
Removable Appliances
Removable orthodontic appliances can help patients correct a variety of misalignments and bite problems. They are comfortable to wear, and they don’t irritate the inside of your mouth like traditional metal braces do.
Removable dental appliances can include retainers, clear aligners, and functional appliances like twin blocks and lip bumpers. They are used to apply forces that guide growth and development of the face and jaws, and they can also be used to help with a range of other conditions like tooth crowding and bite problems.
Removable orthodontic appliances must be carefully cleaned twice a day, and they should never be placed in pockets or napkins where they may be lost or broken. They should be kept in their protective case when not in use.
Fixed Appliances
When patients think of fixed orthodontic appliances, they typically picture the traditional silvery metal braces they may be familiar with from seeing other people wearing them. Traditional braces (Figure 13.1) use metal bands that wrap around the back molars and small brackets cemented to the front of each tooth. A thin, springy metal wire runs through the brackets and is secured by elastic or metal ties to help guide teeth into the correct positions.
Some of these fixed appliances produce a strong force that can cause slight discomfort for 3-4 days after placement. A rigid oral hygiene protocol is recommended to minimize caries (tooth decay) which can occur when bands and brackets rub the soft tissue of the mouth. Many patients report a reduced quality of life during the time they are wearing fixed appliances.