Orthodontics Consultation
We Only Provide Orthodontics Consultation Services. We DO NOT Provide Treatments, But We Are Happy To Provide A Reference To Our Group Of Experts.
Although there are other alternatives to getting a straight smile, traditional orthodontics is one of the most effective ways to do so. For some teeth, there are problems that go beyond a simple straightening, and metal braces are one of the best ways to get the teeth to line up properly. If you are considering traditional braces to straighten your teeth, our R and A Orthodontics team is happy to walk you through the procedure to obtain your new smile.
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What Is Traditional Orthodontics?
Traditional orthodontics refers to standard metal braces. They are made up of three parts:
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Brackets – Brackets are attached to each tooth
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Bonding – Bonding is the agent used to attach the brackets. Almost like tooth cement, it’s what holds the brackets firmly in place during treatment
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Archwire – This is the thin metal wire that goes from bracket to bracket. The wire exerts a force on the bracket and, in turn, the tooth. This force is what leads to straight teeth
Why Does Our Orthodontist Recommend Braces?
The fact is that some cases are not going to be appropriate for less invasive methods, like Invisalign. Invisalign is great for straightening teeth, but for more complex cases, traditional braces are best. Why?
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More control. Your orthodontist will have a lot more control over the movement of your teeth with metal braces. If something isn’t going as planned, changes can be made to the plan before proceeding. This customization is the primary reason that traditional braces are preferred and often the only option for more complex cases.
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Invisalign is great for moving teeth horizontally, but some cases require more than that. If a tooth needs to be brought down vertically or rotated, metal braces are the only way to go.
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If there are problems with bite, especially that concern any of the large back teeth, standard braces are the only option. Invisalign does not address problems like this.
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Standard braces may work best on young patients since they are permanent. Parents won’t have to worry about their children taking them out, losing them, or not wearing them during the day.
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Of course, individual evaluations of each and every case is required. That is why there are so many different treatment options because what is good for someone won’t necessarily be good for another person. Dr. Sims is able to discuss treatment options in more detail when you come in for your next appointment and help you decide which is the best for you.
What Is The Process For Getting Orthodontics?
When you come in for a consultation, our doctor will do an examination to see whether you are a good candidate for traditional braces. Once you’ve decided to proceed, the next step is to do x-rays and take photographs and impressions of your teeth. From there, our team will develop a treatment plan to align your teeth and give you the smile you’ve always wanted.
The dentist will discuss the plan with you and then proceed to put it into action! You may need some initial preparatory procedures like an expander or spacers. You’ll also have options as far as if you want metal or clear braces. After these decisions are made, the process gets underway as the brackets are attached, and the archwires are placed.
You’ll have to see your doctor monthly for adjustments and to have your progress checked. With each visit, the archwire will be removed, replaced, and adjusted. You may experience some pain right after each adjustment as your teeth are getting used to the new amount of pressure being placed on them. The pain will subside in a day or two, but it’s a sign that the treatment is working and your teeth are aligning.
Treatment typically takes about two years, but that will vary for each case. After your braces are removed, you will be given a retainer so that your teeth don’t slowly shift back to their former positions.
Schedule Your Next Dental Appointment Today!
R & A Dentistry offers full-service dental exams, cleanings and a variety of dental services in Downtown Calgary. With flexible, available appointments, we can work around your busy schedule to help you stay on top of your dental health, today and into the future.
Contact us today to schedule your next visit, or let us answer any questions you have about our services. For appointments, call (403) 209-2299 today.