When your teeth are not straight and do not meet properly, you may need orthodontic help that will make your teeth look great. For this purpose dental braces are commonly used – special devices for aligning and straightening teeth. It is a good solution for patients with wrong bite. Braces correct underbite, overbite and a range of other orthodontic flaws.

The most favorable age for orthodontic treatment is 10-14 years. This is a period of growth so the correction runs easier. However, it is accessible for all age groups. The treatment is similar for both children and adults, but the process takes longer when adult patients are treated. 

Patients wear dental braces for about half a year, a year or even longer. It depends on the complexity of the condition and the treatment plan, prescribed by orthodontist. Correction of bite may take approximately 2 years as the bite problem belongs to the most complicated ones. 

The correction is performed with the help of pressure on the teeth that gradually moves teeth to the right position.  Every time you visit the orthodontist, interconnecting wires are tightened to shift teeth slightly in the required direction. As the teeth move, the bone is formed correspondingly to support the tooth after it loosens. 

During the treatment the adjustments are performed little by little. It allows the dentists to form the position the way they consider correct. This can be done, for instance, with the speed of 1 millimeter a month. 

It is commonly known that braces straighten crooked teeth and correct crowded teeth that spoil your smile. However, it is necessary to solve the problem for other reasons as well.  Incorrect jaw position causes tooth decay and gum diseases. 

Braces, attached to orthodontic bands, can be bonded to the front of each tooth with the help of dental bonding agent. Sometimes braces are concealed and are attached to the back of the teeth (lingual braces).  There are metal bands as well that wrap around the teeth.  

The most common types of braces are metal, ceramic and plastic. Traditional metal braces are made of medical quality stainless steel. They are very popular as metal braces are the least expensive. Ceramic braces are tooth colored and blend naturally into the patient’s teeth.

Patients can also choose: 

• Lingual braces that are hidden behind the teeth
• Gold-plated braces for people who are allergic to nickel
• Progressive, removable aligners such as Invisalign with clear plastic customized aligners removed and replaced every 2 weeks

There are many other cutting-edge devices aimed at faster solution of the problem or some specific complications. Each option has its pros and cons. Discuss this issue with your orthodontist to choose the best option. 

At Alpha Dental Care we offer traditional braces for Milton, Acton, Burlington, Campbellville orthodontic patients. If you want to learn more about our orthodontic services, call our office at 905-876-0200 or send us a message via our contact request form.