Braces

What are braces?

Braces are fixed oral appliances that adhere to your teeth. Made of small brackets and thin wires, braces gently pull your teeth into alignment over time. Along with straightening crooked teeth, they correct bite problems, such as overbites and underbites. 

While teenagers are the largest demographic for braces, adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment as well. Straightening your teeth and correcting a misaligned bite isn’t simply a cosmetic improvement.

Straight teeth and a properly aligned bite help reduce your risk of many common dental concerns, including:

• Chipped teeth
• Cracked or broken teeth
• Jaw pain
• Tooth decay (cavities)
• Gum disease
• Worn teeth

A healthier smile can prevent the need for costly restorative treatments in the future, such as dental crowns or veneers.

How do I know if I need braces?

The team at Willow Glen Dental Specialists may recommend braces if you have:

• Crooked teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Open bite
• Protruding teeth
• Gapped teeth

Properly aligned teeth can help you chew, speak, and bite more efficiently and comfortably.

Are there different types of braces?

Metal braces are no longer your only option for a straight, healthy smile. The most common types of braces are:

Conventional braces

Conventional braces consist of metal brackets and wires. They adhere to the front of your teeth and gradually shift them into proper alignment. Metal braces are still the most common type. They’re durable, efficient, and you can change the colors of your brackets if you wish.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces, or clear braces, serve the same function as metal braces. However, instead of containing metal, they’re made of ceramic. Ceramic braces blend in naturally with the color of your teeth.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces adhere to the back of your teeth, rather than the front. They face your tongue and are difficult to see. Lingual braces may be a good option for you if you’re looking for a more discreet treatment than conventional braces.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners are removable devices that are nearly invisible to the naked eye. They’re made using digital impressions of your teeth. Clear aligners, like Invisalign® and ClearCorrect™, are translucent and mold to the exact shape of your teeth. Like braces, they gradually shift your teeth into place over time.

Braces typically take 18 months to three years to correct alignment issues, while clear aligners can take as little as 6-18 months. However, braces can correct more severe cases than clear aligners.

For more information on braces, call Willow Glen Dental Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.