When told they need braces, Manassas residents usually find themselves searching online for more information about this common treatment for straightening teeth. Whenever you require any type of treatment or procedure, you owe it to yourself to seek out as much information as possible so that you can make an informed choice about your life, health and appearance.
Braces are dental appliances that are helpful in correcting problems with the teeth, such as crooked teeth, crowding, or teeth out of alignment. People often get braces as teenagers, but adults get them also. As you undergo this treatment, your braces will gradually straighten your teeth and align them, leaving you with a normal bite.
The Consultation Process
Your consultation is the time when you will meet with your dentist or orthodontist to go over your treatment options. You will receive a clinical examination and be asked questions about your health. Digital scans will be taken of your teeth, and photos will be taken of your teeth and face. X-rays will also be needed. All of this information is used to develop a unique treatment plan just for you.
Some patients only require a removable retainer for their treatment. Some need surgery due to an extreme overbite or underbite. Most people just need braces.
What types of braces are there?
There are quite a few types of braces available. The type that works best for you can be determined at your initial consultation.
- Traditional braces
- Ceramic braces
- Lingual braces
- Clear aligners
Traditional Braces
When most people think of braces, they think of traditional braces constructed from metal that involve the use of brackets and wires. Bands are used to pressure teeth into straightening and shifting into their proper alignments. Some patients will need to wear something called headgear overnight to create additional pressure on their teeth.
Ceramic Braces
The brackets used in traditional braces are now available in ceramic that is colored like teeth, making them less noticeable. They can also be constructed from clear materials, gold or stainless steel.
Lingual Braces
These are much like traditional braces, except the braces are affixed to the back of the teeth that face the tongue. This makes them less visible than conventional braces.
Clear Aligners
Also known as “invisible braces,” this treatment involves the use of clear trays made from plastic. They snugly fit over the teeth and pressure them into shifting into the proper positions to enhance your smile.
Clear aligners like Invisalign can be removed conveniently whenever you need to eat or clean your teeth. Since the patient themselves can remove their aligners at any time, unlike traditional braces, patient compliance is very important. You will need to wear your aligners 22 hours daily to stick to your treatment plan. If you don’t wear your aligners as recommended, your treatment time could be delayed.
Your Consultation
When it comes to braces, Manassas residents expect the very best treatment to straighten their teeth. To begin your own treatment process, reach out to Liberia Dental Care today!
