Orthodontics: The Best Methods for Straightening Your Teeth

Orthodontics is a way to straighten your teeth. It can be embarrassing when you have misaligned teeth. But, there are ways to make your smile look better after the procedure. There are even options for adults who want straighter teeth with less metalwork and more natural-looking results than traditional braces offer.

Orthodontics near you offers different options, and the best method to use depends on what type of problems you are facing. For example, if your bite is not as aligned as it could be because one or both of your jaws do not close completely in order, then Invisalign® may be a good option for you. The brackets used in this type of treatment are clear and removable, so you can take them out whenever you like.

Braces are the most traditional type of orthodontics and use metal brackets that fit on the front of your teeth to move them into place.

Traditional braces have come a long way in terms of both comfort and appearance. Today, different new materials are used to make them much less noticeable than they were in the past.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on alignment and straightening the teeth.

This may be achieved by using braces, clear aligners, or other similar devices to achieve perfect dental-facial symmetry. Orthodontic patients are generally people who have crowded or crooked teeth and those with tooth misalignment problems.

The treatment aims to improve your smile by straightening teeth and aligning jaws, so you have an overall better-looking appearance with brighter white teeth and straighter facial features. It is not only about aesthetics; crooked or misaligned teeth can also cause issues with jaw function, and speech development.

What Are the Different Orthodontic Treatments That You Can Use?

Some of the most common orthodontic treatments include braces, retainers, clear aligner therapy, or Invisalign.

• Metal braces

Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment used to straighten teeth and resolve misalignment problems. They consist of brackets that have been attached to each tooth in a process known as cementation, with a wire running between them on which you can attach different types of rubber bands or elastics for faster movement.

Braces typically consist of brackets that are cemented onto the teeth with wires running between them, which hold rubber bands or elastics for faster movement and results.

• Retainers

Retainers will be used immediately following your orthodontics treatment to help ensure stability as your teeth move back into their relaxed position. A dentist in Woodbridge will instruct you to wear them every night for the first couple of months and then only occasionally afterward if needed.

• Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign treatment is an alternative to traditional braces that uses a series of clear, virtually invisible aligners.

Traditional or metal braces are what most people think about when they hear the word orthodontics. However, Invisalign treatments use a series of nearly invisible plastic trays, which you change out every two weeks at a time.

The material that the trays are made of has a smooth surface which makes it easy to clean. It is also less irritating than traditional orthodontic appliances since they do not have sharp edges or brackets that cause pain when eating.

Similar to metal braces, Invisalign treatments also use elastics or rubber bands to help guide teeth into their new positions when moving them.

Invisalign aligners are removable, which makes them much more convenient than metal braces.

All these orthodontic devices can work in your alignment. But, our orthodontist in Woodbridge, VA, will choose one based on your dental condition.

How Long Does an Orthodontic Treatment Last?

Orthodontics is a long, sometimes grueling process—but the results are well worth it. The average treatment lasts about two years. However, each patient’s case varies depending upon how crowded or spaced out their teeth are and other factors.

It takes time for your mouth to adjust to wearing braces because your mouth has to get used to having something in it.

Tips on How to Keep Your Mouth Healthy And Clean While You Are Wearing Braces

People who wear braces must maintain a high level of dental hygiene. Proper brushing and flossing are essential to preventing gum disease, cavities, and other issues that can lead to tooth decay or loss.

Failure to follow a proper oral hygiene routine can lead to serious dental issues. These dental problems can also cause decay or infection and warrant a visit to an emergency dentist in Woodbridge.

You should avoid certain foods while you wear braces because they can cause damage to your teeth, like sticky and chewy foods.

While there are many different types of braces, such as metal or ceramic brackets, adults and teens can wear clear aligners that do not show when talking or smiling.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Woodbridge Comfort Dental Care, and Dr. Lotfi will assess your oral health and choose a suitable orthodontic treatment.