Introduction to Orthodontics Braces Presentation

Types of Braces

Thanks to today’s technology, patients now have more options when it comes to wearing braces. While regular metal braces are still widely used, clear braces are becoming increasingly popular along with removable appliances that can be used for mild cases of misaligned teeth.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common type. They are made of high-grade stainless steel. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable and more attractive.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are made of translucent (clear) material. They are most popular with adult patients, due to their cosmetic appeal. The only drawback to ceramic brackets are that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits.

Gold Braces

Gold braces are stainless steel braces coated with 24-karat gold and are popular with patients of all ages.

Invisalign

The Invisalign System is a series of clear overlay templates—called aligners—that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth. This system is available to adult patients with certain orthodontic bite problems. Ask us if you are a candidate for the Invisalign system.

Orthodontic Elastics

During treatment you will be given elastics to wear to help move your teeth. They may change in size, pressure and the way you place them on your teeth. This is a special time in your orthodontic treatment where you have additional control over how well your treatment progresses.

Your treatment will progress the best if you follow these instructions:

  • Wearing your elastics correctly is very important to keep your treatment going in the right direction. Make sure you are wearing the correct size and attaching them as you are instructed.
  • You may experience discomfort at first, however, as you wear your elastics continuously that should disappear.
  • Wear your elastics all the time unless we tell you differently.
  • You may remove them while you are brushing your teeth and eating. Make sure to replace them immediately.
  • Replace your elastics if they break and change them as we tell you. This will usually be at least once per day.

SmartClip™ Self-Ligating Brackets

An advanced system by 3M Unitek of the latest technology that enables the wire to be clipped into the brackets, allowing for easy and effective treatment by reducing friction and appointment time. The brackets are made of nickel titanium and help prevent against any accidental disengagement of the wire, and are also easier to keep clean than