Our Approach to Braces
Braces are instruments that can help you in treating orthodontic conditions such as crowded and crooked teeth. To be specific braces are recommended by dentists if you develop any of the following conditions:
- Crowded teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Underbite
- Overbite
- Misaligned jaw
- Disorders of the jaw joint
- Incorrect jaw position
If left untreated, these conditions can lead to headaches, gum diseases, tooth decay, earaches, and may even cause severe problems in speaking, chewing, and biting. Typically, braces are applied during the period of adolescence when the head and mouth are still in the growth phase. However, their application is not restricted to only this phase.
How do they work?
When braces wound around the teeth tightly, they exert constant pressure on them for extended periods. This forces the jaw and teeth to conform to the force and gradually change shape. The braces exert pressure on the membrane underneath the gums that connects the teeth to the jaw and displaces them into the correct position.
Getting braces is not painful and usually takes an hour or two. However, the process may take up to a few weeks, depending on your condition. The braces wires, and the pressure are increased gradually over a period of time as the teeth begin to move progressively into the correct position. Every time this happens, your mouth will feel tender and will feel sore for a week. To maintain and sustain the braces, you should avoid eating caramel, gummies, and other sticky or hard foodstuff.
Types of Braces
Braces are custom-made and are designed uniquely to suit the conditions of the patient. You may suffer from multiple orthodontic problems such as overbite and crowded teeth together, which would require a specific design.
Generally, metal braces are the most commonly used type, which consists of an archwire, metal brackets, and elastic O-rings. The metal brackets are individually glued to the teeth and are connected to the archwire through O-rings. The archwire puts pressure on the teeth and the jaw forcing them to conform to the pressure. Archwires are adjusted over a period of time to move teeth into the desired place slowly.
Other types of braces that may be used are:
Ceramic braces: They resemble the color of the tooth enamel and are less visible.
Lingual braces: These are completely placed on the back of the teeth and do not impact your smile.
Clear Aligners: Also known as Invisalign, these are clear removable aligners that do not severely impact the patient’s lifestyle.
If you are looking for this orthodontic treatment, visit 7707 West Lane Suite B, Stockton, CA 95210, or book an appointment with us at (209) 952-9290.