Braces

TYPES OF BRACES AND ORTHODONTIC APPLIANCES

Metal BracesMetal braces are traditional orthodontic appliances that are positioned on the front of the teeth. The teeth can be aligned by placement of orthodontic wires that are attached to the braces.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces and are usually used when a patient would benefit from traditional braces but is concerned about the aesthetic appearance of metal. These braces are clear and would not be unnoticeable.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces work just as well as metal or ceramic braces but are placed behind the teeth on the tongue side. They cannot be seen by others during normal conversations and are very hard to detect at all. They are a great alternative to traditional braces.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces when the patient does not want any fixed appliances but still want to improve their smile. These â€œalignersâ€ are clear plastic trays that are to be worn about 22 hours a day. As few as 12 to 48 aligners may be required depending on the case and treatment plan. Dr. Jenkins can check to see if you are a candidate for Invisalign at your consultation appointment.

Expanders

Sometimes a patient may benefit from expanding a small arch to create a wider smile. To achieve this a removable or cemented expansion appliance may be used.

Retainers

Many times teeth can be moved without braces by wearing removable retainers if the bite is good. Twelve to twenty four hours a day is recommended until the teeth are corrected. Retainers are also used after braces are taken off to hold the teeth in place. Teeth do have memory and will eventually shift if retainers are not worn.