Orthodontics & Braces Chapel Hill
fall in love with your smile
Braces & Orthodontics for Teeth Alignment
Orthodontics is a specialty field of dentistry that is dedicated to preventing, diagnosing, and treating improperly positioned jaws and teeth. One of the most common type of orthodontic procedures that are performed are in the form of braces or alternative aligners to address crooked teeth. Patients struggling with common orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth, overbite, underbite, or unwanted gaps between their teeth may benefit from orthodontic supports that our clinic offers.
Our clinic offers several different dental brace or retainer treatment options, and is happy to help you and/or your family determine which treatment option is best for you or your child. Dental braces can be a wonderful option for patients who are suffering from issues related to bite irregularities, or their jaw or face. If you would like to learn more about orthodontic supports that we offer, please read below, or contact our staff who will be happy to answer any of your questions and/or set up a consultation.
If you would like to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions about our treatment options, please contact our office at (919) 595-1010. We look forward to creating the smile you have always desired a reality for you.
Types of Dental Braces
There are a range of different braces available, all of which vary in cost, appearance, comfortability, and efficacy in treating conditions.
The most common types of braces include the following:
- Traditional Metal Braces: Braces made of wires that are attached to your teeth. The benefits of these type of braces are largely because of their affordability; however, they are also much more noticeable and require frequent adjustments. Fortunately, technological advancements have made adjusting these braces to achieve a proper fit much easier and more effective.
- Ceramic Braces: Like metal braces, but much less noticeable due to the material more closely resembling your natural teeth color. Although ceramic braces are much less noticeable, they are also significantly more expensive, can stain or become discolored more easily, and require the same frequency of alignments as traditional braces.
- Lingual Braces: Metal braces that are attached to the back of your teeth. The drawbacks to these type of braces is that some people feel they are more uncomfortable than traditional braces, but they are also much less visible, which many patients find preferable. It is important to note that not all patients are viable candidates for lingual braces.
- Invisalign: A popular alternative orthodontic treatment to traditional wire and bracket braces. Because they are made of clear, flexible plastic, Invisalign is an especially popular treatment option for clients who are concerned about the aesthetic appearance of their orthodontic support. Invisalign trays are also thin and removable, making them far more comfortable and much less restrictive than traditional braces. Although these benefits are significant, Invisalign is not for all patents as compliance and consistent wear is needed for the best outcome.
Retainers
Orthodontic retainers are often used following treatment with braces to keep teeth straight. Teeth that have been aligned by braces can tend to revert to their original position, but retainers can prevent this from occurring. Retainers can also be used to correct speech issues and improve breathing issues. Retainers are usually made from plastic or wires and are customized to fit the unique needs of your mouth. The two broad categories or retainers are fixed and removable.
Proper Care Improves Longevity of Braces or Retainers
It is important to be aware that tartar, plaque, and bacteria can develop on braces or retainers just as easily as teeth. As such, it is important to practice consistent and proper oral health care techniques with your orthodontic device. For removable retainers, it is important to brush them twice daily, rinsing them thoroughly with water and allowing them time to dry. When you are not wearing your retainers, it is important to keep them in their case, which should also be cleaned regularly. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your teeth remain healthy and strong.
- Brush twice daily (minimum) and practice proper brushing technique. In addition to brushing regularly, it is also important to brush effectively. Our staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have about proper brushing techniques.
- Floss daily. If you are someone who tends to avoid flossing, you may want to consider flossing alternatives, such as interdental brushes or floss picks.
- Be mindful of your diet. One of the best ways you can prevent dental issues from developing is to avoid foods that are sugary or high in starch. If you do drink soda or sugary beverages, try to use a straw to limit exposure of sugar to your teeth. It is also important to swish your mouth with water following meals, as doing so can dislodge food remnants, which, if left alone can create future tooth decay.
- Schedule regular dental exams. Unchecked dental issues can result in additional issues and progression of decay, which is why it is so important to visit your dentist every six months. In addition to providing a deep clean for your teeth and diagnosing potential issues before they progress, these regular checkups also allow your dentist to monitor the status of your orthodontics.
High-Quality Dental Care
At Cornerstone Family Dentistry in Chapel Hill, all our services are performed with the patient in mind. We want you to feel comfortable in the dental chair, confident in our work, and most importantly, we want you to fall in love with your smile again. If you would like to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions about cosmetic procedures that we offer, please contact us at (919) 595-1010.