If you are an adult and are considering getting braces, you are not alone. There are currently over five million people in orthodontic treatment. About 1 in 5 patients are adults. Whether you are an adult who needed braces as a kid and never got them, or you have developed misaligned teeth as an adult, braces can improve your smile and oral health.
How Braces Move Teeth Tooth movement is your body’s natural response to light pressure applied by braces over a period of time, on an average of two years. Traditional orthodontic treatment works when braces and brackets are attached onto your teeth. These brackets have small slots, and that is where your orthodontist inserts wires when you first get your braces on, as well as your subsequent adjustment visits. These wires are held in place by small elastic ties that fit around the brackets.
As time passes during your treatment, these wires apply pressure on your teeth, which sets in motion the movement of your teeth into their desired positions. Each of your teeth has a different size and shape, and so do the brackets. Each bracket is custom made for the particular tooth on which it is supposed to fit.
Different Types Of Braces With recent advances in orthodontics, there are numerous options for adults who need braces. The most common option is traditional metal braces. These are best for individuals who have severely crooked teeth or a significant bite problem, or require other major orthodontic changes.
Ceramic braces are another option. Ceramic braces are capable of handling very crooked teeth or bite issues. With ceramic braces you have to be careful about certain foods and drinks you consume while in treatment. Certain foods may stain the brackets to your teeth.
Other options for braces are: • Lingual Braces • Invisalign Braces • SureSmile Braces
After orthodontic treatment completed, it is recommended to wear a retainer. The retainer will prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
Consultation To learn more about different types of braces, or to schedule an initial consultation contact our office today at 203-513-2014.