For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. After your braces come off, you'll feel more self-confident. During your treatment, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal or ceramic. They may be removable, like Invisalign®, or they may be brackets bonded to the front or backs of the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to a corrected position. This is a great time to wear braces! Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can choose brackets that are clear or metallic color. Wires are also less noticeable than they used to be and the latest materials move teeth faster with less discomfort to patients. SureSmile® moves us from the art of orthodontics to the science of orthodontics for a more predictable finish.
Duration of Treatment
Treatment time typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the growth of the patient's mouth and face and the severity of the problem. Our use of self-ligating brackets and SureSmile has allowed for a 30-40% reduction in the time that the full braces are needed. This helps with patient cooperation, hygiene and allows for less decalcification (white spot) problems when done.
Patients grow at different rates and will respond variously to orthodontic treatment, so the time to case completion may differ from the original estimate. The patient's diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands or headgear is an important factor in achieving the most efficient treatment. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as six months.