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Braces Treatment

Dental braces are an orthodontic treatment performed to correct misaligned teeth and jawline issues. Notably, the braces treatment is not a one-time correction. It is a process in which the patient needs to cooperate with the orthodontist on a long-term basis for maintaining the braces, oral health, and attending to monthly, quarterly, or half-yearly reviews for brace adjustment and progress tracking. While for some individuals, results can be apparent in a few months, for others, it can take a few years.

Types of Braces

For the vast majority of orthodontic patients, wearing fixed appliances (commonly called braces) will be a major part of treatment — and those braces, for the most part, will be the familiar silvery-metal type. But while they're still quite popular, traditional-looking metal braces are no longer the only game in town! Let's have a look at some of the options available in orthodontic appliances.

First, we should distinguish between fixed and removable appliances. Fixed appliances like braces are attached to the teeth by metal bands or special cement. They aren't normally taken off until treatment is complete. Removable appliances, such as clear aligners, are typically worn some 22 hours per day, but may be easily taken off as needed. While clear aligners can be effective in treating mild to moderate orthodontic problems, fixed appliances are generally needed for more comprehensive treatment.

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Metal Braces

Typically made of high-grade stainless steel, traditional metal braces remain by far the most common type of fixed orthodontic appliances. They consist of metal bands that wrap around the molars in back, and smaller metal brackets that are cemented to the front surfaces of the other teeth. A thin, springy metal wire, running through the brackets, gently guides the teeth into a proper position. This archwire may be fixed to the brackets by flexible elastics, metal ties, or other types of clasps.

There are many good reasons why time-tested metal braces remain popular — because they offer a reliable, effective and economical treatment option. In contrast to the appliances of the past, today's braces are actually smaller, lighter, and more comfortable to wear. If you want a less traditional look, you may be able to choose colorful elastics for the brackets, or other modifications.

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Ceramic Braces

Clear ceramic braces are a new variation on the traditional system that provides a far less noticeable method of treatment. They use the same components as traditional braces — except that the brackets on the front side of the teeth are made of a translucent ceramic material that blends in with the tooth's natural color. This system has become a favorite for adults (including some well-known celebrities) because, unless you look closely, it's hard to notice they're there.

Several types of ceramic braces are currently available, and the technology is constantly improving. Their aesthetic appeal is undeniable... but there are a few tradeoffs. The ceramic brackets can be less durable than their metal counterparts; plus, while the brackets themselves don't stain, the elastic bands that attach them to the archwire do (however, these are generally changed each month.) Ceramic braces also cost more than metal — but for many people, the benefit of having an inconspicuous appliance outweighs the costs.

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Lingual Braces

While ceramic braces certainly offer a less conspicuous look, there is still another system that allows fixed braces to be truly invisible. In some situations, special appliances called lingual braces can be placed on the tongue side of the teeth. They work the same way other metal braces do — but even though they're made of metal, they can't be seen, because they're hidden behind the teeth themselves!

Lingual braces aren't the proper treatment for every orthodontic condition. Special training is required to install them, and they're significantly more expensive than standard braces. They also generally require a bit more time for the wearer to get used to them, and they may slightly prolong treatment. But if you want the least visible type of fixed appliance — and if you're a candidate for this treatment option — then lingual braces may be just what you're looking for.

Who Needs Braces?

From infants to adults, anyone who experiences the following orthodontic problems can undergo this treatment.

  • Malocclusion (difficulty in biting and chewing)
  • More gap between the teeth (misaligned)
  • Crowded or crooked teeth (overlapped, twisted, or erupted)

While these are the primary concerns for which this treatment is provided, anyone with misaligned or related orthodontic issues can visit the dental care centre and get an orthodontist’s consultation.   

How is braces treatment in St.Louis performed?

At St.Louis South Orthodontics, we follow the step-by-step procedure below:

  • Step 1: The patient books an appointment with the expert orthodontist.
  • Step 2: The patient explains the underlying problem with observed signs or symptoms, if any.
  • Step 3: The orthodontist examines the issue and probes the patient for more insights.
  • Step 4: Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the orthodontist explains the alignment treatment along with its types.
  • Step 5: The teeth braces measurement is taken, and the appliance is ordered
  • Step 6: On a fixed date, the orthodontist puts on the braces with brackets, wires, and bonding agents.
  • Step 7: After the correction in weeks, months, or years, the orthodontist helps remove the braces.
  • Step 8: The orthodontist gives after-care instructions and helps put on retainers to protect the correction.

Frequently asked questions

These are dental appliances that straighten crooked or misaligned teeth. These are made of different materials, including stainless steel, ceramic, or a resin mixture.

Firstly, the orthodontist needs to understand the concern, diagnose the condition, explain the treatment and its types, and then fix the appointment or the right time for placement.

This leading orthodontic centre in Saint Louis provides all types of aligners, including invisible or clear aligners for teens and adults, prioritizing aesthetics (look and smile).

Indeed, the procedure is not painful. However, there may be mild discomfort or soreness after the procedure, based on the individual’s sensitivity.

It is the brand name of a particular dental appliance made of clear resin. These clear aligners for teeth are removable and are not fixed.

Each brace comes with its pros, cons, effectiveness, and duration for correction. So, we cannot rely upon one brace type.
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