Orthodontics
BRACES
TYPES OF BRACES OVERVIEW
For a brief narrated overview of the different types of braces, please click on the image below. It will launch our flash educational Module in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about different types of braces.
Braces use constant, gentle pressure, applied to your teeth over time, to move them into proper position. Your braces are at work every moment of your orthodontic treatment. While braces are available in a variety of styles, including metal, plastic and ceramic, they all have the same goal: To correctly align your teeth and jaws for enhanced aesthetic appeal and for better oral health.
METAL BRACES
Metal braces are popular with children and teens, and are smaller and more comfortable than ever before. Traditional metal braces feature two main components: the brackets that are placed on each tooth and the arch wire that is threaded through them. As the wire applies pressure to one side of the tooth, the jawbone on the other side gives way. This causes the tooth to move and new bone to grow behind it. Elastics (rubber bands) are used in conjunction with braces, exerting a constant force to move teeth. Elastics must be worn at all times and changed every day in order to maintain the proper force.
RETAINERS
After the active orthodontic treatment period is complete and your braces have been removed, you will be given a retainer. This marks the beginning of the retention phase, during which a retainer is used to hold teeth in their new positions while the jawbone, gums and muscles adapt. You must wear the retainer as instructed, otherwise your teeth may revert to their former positions, and the benefits of having had braces will be lost.
WHEN TO WEAR YOUR RETAINER
Wear your retainer at all times, even while you are sleeping, with the following exceptions: The retainer may be removed for eating, swimming, and vigorous sporting activities.
PAIN AND SORENESS
The retainer may make your teeth sore and you may even find that your speech is slightly altered for a few days. This is normal with a new retainer or after an adjustment and will resolve on its own. If you develop a sore spot on your gums, call our office so that we can adjust the retainer for better comfort.
CLEANING YOUR RETAINER
Brush your retainer daily with toothpaste. If needed, denture cleaner can be used for a more thorough cleaning. If you have a bonded wire retainer behind your front teeth, be careful to clean it as well when brushing your teeth. Do not boil your retainer to sterilize it. If you feel that it needs sterilization, bring it to the office so that we can properly disinfect it for you.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR RETAINER SAFE
Because the retainer is removable, it can be taken out for convenience during meals and for cleaning. However, careful care should be taken not to lose your retainer. When eating meals, be sure to keep it in its case for safety. Never wrap the retainer in a napkin or store it in your pocket. Keep it away from dogs and cats, as they love to chew on these appliances. Please note: an additional charge will be incurred for lost or broken retainers.
TREATMENT TIME
Retainer treatment time varies by patient. Some may even require permanent retention to keep teeth aligned properly. We will discuss this as part of your overall treatment plan.
Remember, your retainer can only work when you are wearing it! Please give us a call if you have any questions about retainer use.