Braces are beneficial to both adults and children alike. The best age for children to begin orthodontic treatment varies depending on their individual needs. However, it is essential that a child has lost all of their milk teeth and that they have been replaced by their permanent teeth, prior to the commencement of treatment. Adult patients may require a longer treatment time, as they have denser bone structure than children; however, the results are just as effective. You are never too old for braces!
Modern braces look much less bulky and noticeable. Braces no longer just look like "train tracks" running across your teeth. Today, braces are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. We use clear ceramic brackets on the front surface of teeth and the wire running through the brackets are also color coated (matching with your tooth color) which further reduces the visibility of the wire and braces. This virtually makes the braces invisible!
Your braces will be adjusted periodically so that your teeth move correctly and efficiently. The time required for orthodontic treatment varies from person to person; however, an average treatment time is approximately 6-12 months. After your braces have been removed you will need to wear a retainer. A retainer is a custom-made, removable appliance or a fixed lingual retainer that helps keep teeth in their new, straightened position after braces have been removed. Retainers can also be used to treat more minor orthodontic problems.
Different materials are used to manufacture tooth colored brackets. Ceramic brackets are the most popular.
Ceramic brackets with metal inserts are more advantageous to use because the teeth get corrected faster with these. Ceramic brackets are strong, not much visible, inert and stable in the oral conditions. Lately, color coated wires matching to the tooth color are also available which make the braces virtually invisible.
Lingual braces are fixed onto the inner sides of the teeth. These braces have been used for many years. Their popularity is now growing as more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment. They are not seen at all so the patients who are conscious about wearing braces can get their teeth repositioned to get an aesthetic smile.
The latest lingual brackets are highly refined and low profile. Therefore, they are more comfortable for the patients. We use the Multi-Purpose Attachments for many of our patients wherever possible. These are the thinnest possible brackets available and therefore are most comfortable for our patients.
