TRADITIONAL BRACES: Today’s braces are generally less noticeable than those of the past when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. These days the front teeth typically have only the bracket glued directly to the tooth, minimizing the “train track” look and significantly improving patient comfort. Brackets can be metal or clear, depending on the patient’s preference. Modern wires are also less noticeable than earlier ones. Some of today’s wires are made of special metals and exert a gentle but long lasting pressure on the teeth, so that the toothmoving process is less traumatic and requires fewer appointments than in the past.
CLEAR BRACES: As an alternative to the traditional metal braces, we also offer ceramic, or “clear” braces. These braces are often preferred by our adult patients, as ceramic braces are less noticeable than conventional metal braces. When “aesthetic” braces were new on the orthodontic scene, many different clear materials were experimented with, some of which discolored over time. Modern ceramic braces do not discolor and remain attractive throughout treatment.
INVISALIGN: Invisalign® is a relatively new type of appliance that can be used to straighten some people’s teeth without the use of conventional braces. Invisalign® uses a series of clear removable aligners to straighten teeth. Each aligner is worn 20 hours per day (with the exception of eating and brushing) for a period of two to three weeks.
- aligners are almost invisible
- can be removed to eat, brush, floss
- can correct problems in adults and teens
- studies (although relative discomfort is hard to quantify) have shown Invisalign causes less discomfort than traditional appliances
Beacause of our extensive number of Invisalign patients and exhaustive training, we are one of only four Invisalign® Premier Providers in Austin.
TEMPORARY ANCHORAGE DEVICES: Miniature implants or temporary anchorage devices, are titanium-alloy mini-screws that are attached temporarily to the bone. Placement of these mini-screws is minimally invasive and relatively painless. They can be used to intrude or extrude teeth, rapidly move teeth, or close spaces in areas previously thought impossible.
EARLY TREATMENT: In about 20% – 25% of patients, it is necessary that the orthodontic treatment plan consists of an early (Phase I) and a later (Phase 2) treatment to correct various growth or tooth eruption problems. Most of these complications are related to either anterior/posterior crossbites or aesthetic concerns of the patient or parents.
There is a risk associated with doing two phases of orthodontic treatment because the longer braces or other appliances are left on teeth, the greater the chance of increased cavities and root loss. This is why, when considering early treatment, it is important to weigh the risks vs the benefits.
In the past, two phases of orthodontic treatment was considered the norm. Contemporary research has suggested more concise protocols for early (Phase I) treatment. The American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists have both stated that the scientific evidence demonstrates that for most patients early treatment is not absolutely necessary and may even extend the overall treatment time. It is important to remember that not every child requires the same type or length of treatment, and that what is appropriate for one person is not for another.