Do you or your children suffer from misaligned teeth? You’re not alone. In fact, studies show that approximately 20% of people in the United States suffer from some form of malocclusion or a bad bite.
Orthodontic treatment can help align your teeth and jaws, giving you a healthier mouth and a more confident smile. In the past few years, orthodontic treatments have come a long way, and there are now many different types of treatments that can help straighten your child’s teeth.
But with so many types of orthodontic treatments available, how do you know which one is right for your child? Here are the most common types of orthodontic treatments:
Braces
Braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments. They are also one of the most effective ways to straighten teeth and improve your smile.
Braces work by applying pressure to your teeth and jaws to move them into the correct position.
This process can take several months or even years, depending on the severity of your orthodontic condition.
If you are considering braces, it is essential to consult with a qualified orthodontist to determine if they are the right treatment for you.
Retainers
Retainers are orthodontic devices used to keep teeth in their new, correct position following orthodontic treatment. They are typically worn for a while after braces are removed or following other orthodontic procedures.
There are removable and fixed retainers.
Removable retainers are easy to clean and care for. They can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing. However, they must be worn as prescribed by the orthodontist to be effective.
Fixed retainers are bonded to the back of the teeth and cannot be removed by the patient. They are more effective at keeping teeth in their new position, but they can be more challenging to clean.
The orthodontist will discuss the best type of retainer for each patient based on their individual needs. Wearing a retainer as prescribed is essential for maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a clear aligner that is used to straighten teeth. They are invisible and removable, making them a popular choice for adults and teens.
Invisalign treatment involves a series of clear plastic aligners custom-made for your teeth. The aligners are worn for two weeks and then replaced with a new set.
Each aligner moves your teeth slightly until they are in the desired position. The entire treatment process usually takes about 12 months. If you are considering Invisalign for your child, consult with a local orthodontist to see if it is the right treatment option.
Remember that early orthodontic treatment is often recommended for children to avoid more severe problems later on.
Fastbraces
Fastbraces are orthodontic brackets that are made of high-quality stainless steel. They are designed to straighten teeth quickly and efficiently.
They work by applying a gentle force to the teeth, which helps to gradually move them into their proper position. Fastbraces are an affordable, convenient, and effective orthodontic treatment option for patients of all ages. They are also ideal for patients who are looking for early orthodontic treatment.
As the name suggests, they work faster than traditional braces. Hence, they are great for people who want a quick and effective orthodontic treatment.
They are also easier to keep clean than traditional braces, as they have fewer parts and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
Schedule a consultation with your orthodontist today to see if Fastbraces may be the right option for you!
Orthodontic Surgery
While orthodontic surgery is not as common as other orthodontic treatment options, it is still a viable option for those who need it. This type of surgery is usually reserved for more serious cases where the teeth and jaws are severely misaligned.
Orthodontic surgery can correct a wide variety of problems, including the overcrowding of teeth, jaw misalignment, and even facial imbalances. However, surgery also comes with risks and side effects, such as severe infection, bleeding, and nerve damage.
As with any orthodontic treatment, it is important to consult with your orthodontist before making decisions about surgery. They will be able to assess your case and recommend the best course of action.
Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders are used for widening the upper jaw so that the teeth can be aligned properly. Palatal expanders are usually made of metal and plastic and are attached to the teeth with brackets.
They work by gradually separating the bones in the jaw so that they can be moved into their correct positions. The expanders are created to fit the patient’s palate, applying pressure to the back part of your jaw and the upper molars.
The process slowly moves the teeth further apart, expanding the patient’s palate. This movement allows the orthodontist to come in with braces to further correct your teeth’s position.
Palatal expanders are usually worn for about six months to a year for the best results. After the orthodontist removes the expander, a retainer is then put in place to keep your smile looking great!
Orthodontic Elastics
Orthodontic elastics, also called orthodontic rubber bands, are small rubber bands that attach to hooks on your braces and apply pressure to move your teeth. They are available in various colors, so you can have some fun with them!
However, you will need to wear elastics for 20 to 22 hours a day, and you will need to change them out every day. Your orthodontist will give you specific instructions on how to wear them.
Elastics are an important part of your orthodontic treatment, so follow your orthodontist’s instructions carefully. If you have any questions, ask your orthodontist or orthodontic team.
Headgear
Headgear is another type of orthodontic appliance that’s used to correct bite problems. Headgear consists of a metal frame that goes around your head, with straps around your face and neck.
The frame is attached to your teeth with metal wires or rubber bands. Headgear is usually worn at night, but your orthodontist may tell you to wear it during the day as well.
Wearing headgear as directed is very important because it helps to move your teeth and jaws into their proper positions.
Now You Know the Different Types of Orthodontic Treatments
Many types of orthodontic treatments are available to those who need them, ranging from traditional braces to more modern options such as Fastbraces.
Remember, it is important to consult with your orthodontist before making any decisions about your orthodontic treatment. They will be able to assess your case and recommend the best course of action.
So, what are you waiting for? Schedule a consultation with us today and get started on your journey to a better smile.