Braces

Braces are orthodontic appliances commonly used to correct a variety of smile issues, including crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth. Our dentist can recommend the best type of treatment for you, depending on the severity of your misalignment.

Conventional Braces

The most commonly used type of braces is a bracket system, with metal brackets bonded to the front of your teeth. An archwire connects the brackets and applies gentle pressure to move your teeth into the desired position. Wires and rubber bands may also be used to help move the teeth into place. 

Our orthodontist will use X-rays and molds of your mouth to determine your exact treatment plan.

Once your braces are in place, you will need to stick to a strict oral hygiene routine to ensure proper hygiene during treatment. This includes brushing your teeth after every meal and snack, flossing once a day, and maintaining regular appointments with our orthodontist for checkups and cleanings. 

Since it can take some months to see results, it is important to stay positive and keep smiling throughout the process. After all, your new, straightened smile will be worth it in the end!

Types of Braces

Traditional wire braces are the most commonly used type of braces for correcting misaligned teeth. This type works by applying constant, gentle pressure on the teeth and slowly moving them into the correct position over time. They are made from high-grade stainless steel and come in various sizes suitable for kids and adults alike. 

Patients can also choose the color of their braces from a wide range to match their personality or mood.

Ceramic braces are similar to traditional braces but are made from clear materials making them less visible to others. However, the ceramic material is less durable than metal and can crack if handled improperly. 

Lingual braces are another form of invisible braces that are placed behind the teeth instead of in front. These appliances offer the same benefits as traditional braces but are hidden better.

How Do Braces Work?

First, our dentist will attach brackets to each tooth with a bonding material. Brackets can be made from stainless steel or ceramic and are attached to the teeth using a special type of glue that will eventually become flexible once the braces are in place.

Once each bracket is bonded to the teeth, the dentist will use an archwire to connect all the brackets together. This archwire will hold the pressure on the teeth in the direction where they need to be moved. The dentist will then use elastic bands or springs to connect the archwires to each individual bracket.

Once the orthodontist has determined that the treatment is complete, they will remove the braces and any elastics. There may be a bit of soreness after getting braces removed, but patients should experience relief from pain within the first few days of treatment. With proper care, the process of getting braces should be easy and painless for patients. 

To find out more about the dental services offered at our dental practice, call (480) 614-2211 or schedule a consultation online. You can also visit us at 12020 E Shea Blvd Suite 10, Scottsdale, AZ 85259.