Orthodontics
In the past decade, there has been a dramatic increase in orthodontic treatment, especially in adults. We all realize that having a healthy, bright, beautiful smile enhances our appearance and allows us to smile with confidence. Thanks to the advances in modern technology, we are able to improve our teeth and smiles easier than ever before.
Orthodontic dental treatments can:
- Change the size, shape, and alignment of certain teeth
- Fill in unattractive spaces between teeth
- Improve or correct bites
- Align teeth to be healthier and easier to clean
- Reduce tooth wear
Remember, your smile speaks before you even say a word!
Common Types of Orthodontics
Invisalign
One of the primary concerns people often have about dental braces is the aesthetic impact of the metalwork on their smile. Especially for adults, the prospect of wearing unattractive metal braces for long periods of time can be very discouraging. Invisalign® offers an almost invisible aligning system that straightens teeth fast and contains no metal.
Invisalign® treatment consists of a series of custom-made aligning trays. The dentist changes the trays every several weeks to fit the new tooth configuration. In addition to the reduced visual impact, Invisalign® aligning trays can be temporarily removed for important occasions – meaning that treatment duration is patient-controlled. A great number of people report complete satisfaction with both the Invisalign® treatment and the stunning results.
What Kind of Bite Problems can Invisalign® Correct?
Invisalign® corrects the same dental problems as traditional metal braces. The only difference is that Invisalign® trays are almost invisible to the naked eye, and can be removed at will.
Here are some problems that are commonly corrected with Invisalign®:
Overcrowding – This occurs when there is too little space for the teeth to align normally in the mouth. Overcrowding can cause tooth decay and increase the likelihood of gum disease.
Large gaps between teeth – This can sometimes occur because teeth are missing or because the jaw continues to grow abnormally.
Crossbite – This common dental problem occurs when one or multiple upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. As a consequence, uneven wear can lead to bone erosion and gum disease.
Overbite – This problem occurs when the upper teeth project further than, or completely cover, the lower teeth. Eventually, jaw pain and TMJ may occur.
Underbite – This is the inverse of the overbite; the lower teeth project further than, or completely cover, the upper teeth. Eventually, jaw pain and TMJ can occur.
What Advantages Does Invisalign® Offer Over Traditional Braces and Veneers?
Traditional dental braces, Invisalign® aligning trays, and dental veneers are three different ways to perfect the alignment of the teeth. There are many different considerations to make when considering which treatment will be best, and each of these options works better in certain situations.
Invisalign® differs from traditional braces in that the aligning trays are fully removable. This means that more discipline and commitment is required from the patient. This is not usually a problem since the trays are comfortable and nearly invisible. Almost identical results can be obtained by using either treatment.
Invisalign® is preferable to veneers in many cases because unlike veneers, Invisalign® actually straightens the teeth. Veneers are thin covers that the dentist permanently affixes to the teeth. Teeth must be etched beforehand, meaning that to remove dental veneers, an alternative covering must be constructed. In addition to being somewhat expensive, veneers can break and often last for less than 20 years.
What Does Invisalign® Treatment Involve?
First, the dentist needs to devise an initial treatment plan before creating special aligning trays. Three-dimensional digital images are taken of the entire jaw. These images allow the dentist to move specific teeth on the screen, view the jaw from different angles, and also foresee what the face might look like in years to come. In essence, this technology can show how Invisalign® trays will change facial aesthetics.
Once planning is complete, a unique set of aligners is made. The total amount of aligners required varies with each individual case, but 20-29 sets per arch is typical.
What are Some Considerations When Wearing Invisalign® Trays?
Life with Invisalign® aligning trays may take several weeks to get used to. The trays should be worn constantly, except when eating and drinking. It is important to remove the trays when consuming food or drink because food can become trapped between the tray and the teeth, causing tooth decay.
Usually, new trays are necessary every two weeks and progress between appointments can be seen with the naked eye. There is no doubt that Invisalign® aligning trays have revolutionized orthodontics. Invisalign® is renowned for being both comfortable and effective.
If you have questions about Invisalign®, please ask your dentist.
Six Month Smiles
What Is Six Month Smiles Short Term Orthodontic Treatment?
Six Month Smiles® short term orthodontic treatment is a modern twist on tried-and-true orthodontics. There is little debate within the orthodontic community that braces are the most widely used and most effective method to give patients straight, healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Six Month Smiles has taken the best aspects of braces and modified the treatment and the materials to give adults a common-sense, cosmetic solution that fits your lifestyle.
Here is what makes Six Month Smiles so innovative:
Average treatment times of only six months
Six Month Smiles Lucid-Lok® clear brackets and tooth-colored wires are barely visible
Use of braces has shown to provide the most conservative and predictable final result
Six Month Smiles Patient Tray Kits™ ensure that your appointments are fast and comfortable
Low forces and short overall orthodontic treatment times increase comfort, safety, and hygiene
Six Month Smiles is typically less expensive than traditional braces, aligner therapy, or veneers
For more information please contact our office today!
Why Consider Orthodontic Treatment?
The benefits of orthodontic treatment often go beyond the obvious physical changes of an improved bite and straighter teeth. It’s also a great way to improve a person’s overall self-image. While having beautiful, straight teeth is important, even
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children get an orthodontic evaluation no later than age 7. Though orthodontic treatment can be done at any age, timely treatment ensures maximum dental health.
With all of the recent advancements in orthodontics, wearing braces has never been easier. State-of-the-art appliances and treatments are now available, from traditional metal braces, to clear and tooth colored brackets, to NASA type wires that are heat activated and require fewer adjustments! Some patients may even be candidates for treatment with Invisalign, a revolutionary way to straighten teeth using clear, retainer type aligners that require no braces or wires!
If treatment is necessary, we will thoroughly discuss which treatment option is best suited for you.
Reasons for Orthodontic Treatment (Braces) in Adults & Children:
Breathing or swallowing problems – Mouth breathing can lead to snoring and sleep apnea.
Crossbite – One or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth (towards the tongue).
Crowding – Involving extra teeth or malpositioned teeth.
Deep Overbite – The lower front teeth bite into the upper tissue of the upper teeth.
Disfiguring of the face & mouth – Affects the development of the jaw and position of the teeth.
Jaw & jaw joint pain
Missing or extra teeth – Due to tooth decay, injuries, or inherited problems.
Overjet (protruding upper teeth) – Upper teeth that protrude beyond normal and are usually associated with a short lower jaw.
Self-image – An attractive smile can boost a person’s self-image and confidence.
Speech, chewing, or biting problems
Underbite (lower jaw protrusion) – Lower jaw is longer than the upper jaw.
Specific to children:
Finger or thumb sucking – These habits can cause protrusion of the upper incisor teeth, and mouth breathing.
Teeth erupting out of position – Can be guided to proper alignment.
What Does Orthodontic Treatment Involve?
Orthodontic treatment involves three phases:
1. Planning Phase – Your first couple of visits may include the following:
A medical and dental history evaluation.
Castings or “molds” of your teeth.
Computer generated photograph of the head and neck that will aid in planning.
Photographs of your face and mouth.
X-rays of the teeth and jaws.
After careful planning, your orthodontist will design and apply braces or fabricate custom-made appliances for you.
2. Active Phase – Active treatment involves visiting your orthodontist on a regular basis for adjustments and following specific treatment requirements to ensure successful treatment.
3. Retention Phase – When treatment is completed, the braces and/or appliances are removed and a new appliance is made. Usually, these retainers are removable and will maintain the changes made to your teeth if worn continuously until the teeth and bone are stabilized in their new positions.
Treatment and retention times vary depending on each individual case. Your orthodontist will ensure you have a successful treatment for a beautiful smile that can last a lifetime.
Orthodontics can not only help straighten your teeth, giving you an appealing
Traditional Braces
At Laramie Dental Arts, we do not treat our patients with traditional (metal) braces. We have established referral patterns with highly trained orthodontists in the event that seeing one is the best course of treatment to align your smile.
Better Dental Care is Our Mission
So you can smile with confidence
Laramie Dental Arts
4th Street Dental