Are you among the 57% of Americans who feel self-conscious about their smiles?
Maybe you’re an adult who never had the opportunity to get braces when you were younger. Or perhaps you’re a teen whose smile is — well, not as perfect as you’d prefer.
Either way, you can benefit from family orthodontics. A family orthodontist can help you achieve a more beautiful smile, no matter how young (or old) you are.
Here are three common services that family orthodontists provide.
Table of Contents
1. Traditional Braces
Orthodontists have used traditional metal braces for decades because, simply put, they work. Thankfully, today’s braces are lighter, smaller, and more comfortable than the braces your parents wore.
Your dentist will attach a small metal bracket to the front of each tooth. Then they’ll secure the brackets together using a firm archwire. The archwire remains in place with the help of elastic ties, which come in a variety of colors (or clear, of course).
If you don’t love the thought of a mouthful of metal, you’ll be thrilled to learn that there’s a ceramic version of brackets available now. You can choose a clear or tooth-colored bracket that makes them virtually invisible to onlookers.
Whichever option you choose, you’ll return to your orthodontist every few weeks for them to adjust the archwire and gradually coax your teeth into alignment.
2. Invisalign
Speaking of invisible, the top name in invisible braces is Invisalign. Most family orthodontists work with Invisalign, so be sure to ask if this is a treatment option.
Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners that fit snugly over the tops of your teeth. As your teeth gradually shift into place, you’ll use new aligners every few months until the process is complete. For the best results, you’ll need to wear the aligners between 20 and 22 hours a day, taking them out only to eat, drink, and brush your teeth.
It’s worth comparing braces and Invisalign costs before you make your final decision, as invisible braces might be more affordable than you’d expect!
3. Lingual Braces
If you have an unusually challenging case or you want a completely invisible treatment option, ask your orthodontist about lingual braces. Although not as popular as traditional braces or Invisalign, this option works just as well.
The treatment uses brackets similar to traditional metal braces. Rather than wearing them on the front of your teeth, however, they’re affixed to the backside of your teeth. The brackets are threaded with an archwire and your dentist will adjust them regularly to help your teeth shift.
It’s worth noting that the backside placement may cause temporary tongue irritation or changes to your speech. These minor side effects should disappear as your mouth adjusts to the appliances.
Which Family Orthodontics Services Will You Choose?
If you want a more beautiful smile, family orthodontics is the answer. Your orthodontist will evaluate your smile and help you choose the best option to suit your needs and budget.
Was this article helpful for you? Stay right here and continue browsing our site for other informative articles about health, lifestyle, and much more.