Braces have experienced many technological advancements over the years. In the past, they were known for being bulky and painful. Nowadays, they are smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable than ever. With these upgrades come more treatment options to choose from. At Farrow & Dewbre Orthodontics, we want you to enjoy all the benefits advanced orthodontic technology has to offer. Let’s look over the types of braces our practice offers.
There are a wealth of benefits to getting braces, no matter which type of treatment you choose. At Farrow & Dewbre Orthodontics, our modern technology and educated team can successfully treat many dental issues, including:
- Crossbite
- Crowded teeth
- Protruding teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite or underbite
Every smile is different, just as every patient is different. Our team creates a personalized treatment plan for every visitor who comes into our office. If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment to achieve a better smile, our office has a wide range of affordable options available for patients of all ages, including braces. These are the most popular treatments, so let’s take a look at what they are, how they work, and how we can use them to give you the results you want.
Types of braces
Traditional Metal braces
Metal braces are the most popular type of orthodontic treatment among our patients. These braces are made out of stainless steel and other high-quality metals, giving them long-lasting durability. Metal braces don’t need the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments do, so they are often a more affordable option.
Clear braces
Also referred to as ceramic braces, clear braces function in much the same way metal braces do. The difference is that this option is made from tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Clear braces are roughly the same size and shape as metal braces, but they blend in with your natural smile for a more discreet treatment option. These braces are especially popular amongst older patients due to their nearly invisible appearance.
The only disadvantage of ceramic braces is that they are more prone to chipping or cracking. Since metal braces tolerate more pressure than ceramic ones, our team may only suggest them if you have more complex oral issues.
Invisalign clear aligners
The Invisalign system is made up of clear, removable aligners custom-made to fit neatly over your teeth. You’ll have to wear them twenty to twenty-two hours per day throughout the treatment process and replace them every one to two weeks for the next aligner in the system, as directed by one of our orthodontists.
Invisalign offers patients more flexibility compared to traditional braces. You can remove them during meals, so there are fewer food restrictions, and it’s easy to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy since you don’t have to work around wires and brackets. When it’s time to brush and floss, just take them out, rinse, and you’re ready to go!
Caring for your braces
No matter what type of braces treatment you decide on, you’ll have to make a few changes to your oral hygiene routine to accommodate your braces. If you struggle with brushing and flossing while wearing braces, there are tools available to make the process easier. Waterpiks help rinse any hard-to-reach areas and ortho picks can assist with flossing. We recommend brushing twice a day for at least two minutes each time and flossing every night before bed to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Another thing to consider is changes to what food you eat. Sticky and crunchy foods can damage your brackets and wires, so it’s best to avoid these kinds of foods during your treatment. Just remember, these restrictions won’t last forever! Any minor frustrations you experience will be more than worth it once your braces come off and you see your beautiful new smile.
As your treatment progresses, you should expect to come in for follow-up visits every four to eight weeks. At these appointments, Dr. Farrow and Dr. Dewbre will change the bands that are attached to the brackets and may replace the wire as well. These check-ups are usually brief, and we know you’re busy, so you won’t have to miss much time away from school or work. There may be some residual soreness following these adjustments, but this should fade away quickly. These visits are a very important part of your overall treatment plan. We want to help you get the results you want, so remember to stop by for a visit!
Trust your smile to Farrow & Dewbre Orthodontics
Braces are an important and exciting start to a better smile. No matter where you are on your orthodontic journey, you need the right office to guide you along. Our Farrow & Dewbre Orthodontics team is knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to guide you through your orthodontic procedure.
Our dedication to our Western Oklahoma patients shows through our exceptional care, and we pride ourselves on staying up-to-date on the latest orthodontic treatments and technologies. Schedule a FREE consultation with us today!