Braces

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that provides many different areas of treatment, although most people think immediately of braces.

A great smile is only one benefit of straight teeth. Self-confidence and a sense of well-being can be affected by crooked teeth, as well as the ability to eat and speak correctly.

Traditional braces are smaller and now less noticeable than the big wire braces many of us associate with “metal mouth.” New dental technology advances have produced a heat-activated wire that uses body heat in the process of moving teeth. This new technique is less painful than before.

Traditional braces are the least expensive straightening option. Most teens dread traditional metal braces, but the newer, smaller ones are less conspicuous, and colored bands now make the metal braces more fun and personalized.

Ceramic braces consist of teeth-colored brackets and tooth-colored wires that blend in more naturally with teeth to make them much less noticeable.

Both traditional and ceramic braces move teeth faster than the available aligner systems, usually making the visibility of the braces less of a concern to most people.

Lingual braces are metal but are less visible, as they are attached to the back of teeth instead of the front. These braces are more expensive than traditional braces and are more complicated to clean, as well as require more adjustments and office visits.