Braces have changed a lot over the years. In the past, they had a reputation for being bulky, awkward, and painful. However, thanks to technological advancements, they are smaller and more comfortable than ever. With these advancements come more treatment options for patients to choose from. At Hamer & Glassick Orthodontics, we want you to enjoy all the benefits advanced orthodontic technology has to offer. Let’s go over the types of braces our practice offers.
There are many perks to getting braces, no matter which type of treatment you choose. At Hamer & Glassick Orthodontics, our cutting-edge technology and experienced team can successfully treat many dental issues, including:
- Overbite or underbite
- Gaps between teeth
- Protruding teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Crossbite
Every patient has a different smile, so our team creates a personalized treatment plan for everyone who comes into our office. If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment to correct your smile, our office has a wide range of affordable options available for patients of all ages, including braces. These are the most popular treatments, so let’s take a look at what they are, how they work, and how we can use them to give you the results you want.
Types of braces
Traditional Metal braces
Traditional metal braces are the most popular and widely recognized type of orthodontic treatment. These braces are made out of stainless steel and other high-quality metals, giving them long-lasting durability. Metal braces don’t need the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments do, so they are often a more affordable option.
Clear braces
Also called ceramic braces, clear braces function in much the same way metal braces do. The difference is that this option is made from tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Clear braces are roughly the same size and shape as metal braces, but they blend in with your natural smile for a nearly invisible treatment option. This choice is particularly popular amongst adults and older teen patients due to their discreet appearance.
The only disadvantage of clear braces is that they are more prone to chipping or cracking. Since metal braces can handle more pressure than ceramic ones, our team may only suggest them if you have more severe oral issues. With the right attention and care, they can be just as effective and comfortable as metal braces!
Invisalign clear aligners
Invisalign is made up of clear, removable aligners custom-made to fit comfortably over your teeth. Patients have to wear them twenty to twenty-two hours per day throughout the treatment process and replace them every one to two weeks for the next aligner in the system, as directed by one of our orthodontists. Much like clear braces, this is a popular option for teen and adult patients because of its more discreet appearance.
Invisalign offers patients more flexibility compared to traditional braces. You can remove them during meals, so there are fewer food restrictions, and it’s easy to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy since you don’t have to work around wires and brackets. When it’s time to brush and floss, just take them out, rinse, and you’re set for the rest of the day!
Caring for your braces
No matter what type of braces treatment you decide on, you’ll have to make a few changes to your oral hygiene routine to accommodate your mouth’s new condition. If you struggle with brushing and flossing while wearing braces, there are tools available to make the process easier. Waterpiks help rinse any hard-to-reach areas and can assist with flossing. We recommend brushing twice a day for at least two minutes each time and flossing every night before bed to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Another thing to consider is changes to your diet. Sticky and crunchy foods can damage your brackets and wires, so it’s best to avoid these kinds of foods during your treatment. Just remember, these restrictions won’t last forever! Any minor frustrations you experience will be more than worth it once your braces come off and you see your new smile.
During your treatment, you should expect to come in for follow-up visits every four to eight weeks. At these appointments, Dr. Hamer and Dr. Glassick will change the bands that are attached to the brackets and may replace the wire as well. These check-ups are usually brief, and we know you’re busy, so you won’t have to miss much time away from school or work.
There may be some residual soreness following these adjustments, but this should go away quickly. These visits are a very important part of your overall treatment plan. We want to help you get the extraordinary results you deserve, so be sure to visit our office!
Trust Hamer & Glassick Orthodontics
It’s exciting as you work towards the day you achieve your perfect smile, and our office is here to see you to it. Our experienced orthodontists have the education, skills, and training to give you a beautiful smile with long-lasting results you’ll love. There’s never been a better time to take the first step towards improved oral health, so get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Glassick or Dr. Hamer!