Orthodontics Treatment Restores Health, Appearance and Confidence to the Smile
Do you or a family member need orthodontic care?
From children to adults, orthodontic treatments like braces offer numerous benefits for oral health and overall quality of life. Orthodontics involves repositioning teeth and correcting bite alignment, resulting in a straighter and more appealing smile. At our practice near Riverview, FL, we provide orthodontic solutions for patients of all ages, including adults. Nowadays, more adults are discovering the benefits of orthodontics for achieving healthier and happier smiles. Whether you opt for traditional braces or the discreet Invisalign® treatment, we are here to help you achieve your best smile yet.
When Are Traditional Braces the Best Treatment Option?
Traditional braces are the best orthodontic treatment option if you have complex issues or are an adult who has an active lifestyle or plays sports. They are best at treating:
- Complex Orthodontic Issues – Traditional braces are the best choice for treating severe overcrowding, tooth rotation, and other extensive or complex issues.
- Severe Bite Problems or Misalignments – They are also the right choice for people with severe bite problems or misalignments, such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
- Young Patients Who Need a Non-removable Solution – Traditional braces may be best for young patients who need a durable, non-removable solution, giving the child the best chance of consistent, effective treatment.
Benefits of Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are highly effective, offer customizable treatment options, and are versatile. They are usually more affordable than other orthodontic treatments and are suitable for all ages. Other benefits include:
- Highly effective for complex cases or severe misalignments, overcrowding, and bite problems
- Provide consistent long-term treatment that can result in more effective correction of issues
- Can be used to treat patients of all ages
- Are highly durable, reliable, and are less likely to break
- Can be customized to the patient’s treatment plan and lifestyle
- Are the most cost-effective orthodontic treatment option
- Offer faster treatment and results when compared to removable braces
Types of Traditional Braces
There are a few types of traditional braces, each offering different benefits and treatment options. Dr. Ahrens and his team will explain each option and help you determine which one is right for you:
- Metal Braces – Most traditional braces are sterling silver or stainless steel. They use metal bands, brackets, and wires to gently shift your teeth over time, according to your treatment plan.
- Self-Ligating Braces – Self-ligating braces use a built-in system to hold the archwire in place rather than small elastic loops.
- Damon Braces – Damon braces are a type of self-ligating braces that use lighter force for more comfortable treatment. They are available in clear or ceramic options as well as metal.
- Lingual Braces – Lingual braces are attached to the back surfaces of your teeth rather than the front. They are more discreet but can still correct most orthodontic issues.
- Clear Traditional Braces – Clear traditional braces are ceramic braces made from a tooth-colored ceramic material so that they are less noticeable.
Treatment Process With Traditional Braces
During your initial consultation, Dr. Ahrens will perform a thorough dental examination, discuss your health history, and ask questions about your oral hygiene habits and lifestyle. He will take dental x-rays and dental impressions to assess the severity of your orthodontic issues and create your treatment plan. He will then go over your treatment options and answer any questions. While every patient is different and will have a different treatment plan and treatment time, the general process for treatment with traditional braces is:
- Features – You can choose certain features to customize the appearance of your braces.
- Fitting – Ahrens will bond the brackets to your teeth and place a thin, flexible archwire over them. He will fix the archwires in place using elastic bands. He will then give you instructions on proper oral hygiene, care, and maintenance of your braces.
- Treatment – Your treatment may take 12-24 months, depending on your commitment to oral hygiene and care and the results of each adjustment.
- Adjustments – You will visit our office every 4-12 weeks for adjustments. During an adjustment, Dr. Ahrens will examine your teeth and gums, take dental x-rays, and remove the archwire. He will bend or adjust the archwire to tighten your braces, progress to the next level of your treatment plan, and then reattach the wire or replace it with a new one.
- Post-Treatment – Ahrens will regularly assess your progress to see how it aligns with your treatment plan. Once we have determined that your teeth have been corrected as much as possible, we will remove your braces. We may fit you for a retainer to wear at night to maintain your smile.
Lifestyle Adjustments With Braces
You may experience mild side effects during treatment, including mild pain and discomfort during adjustments, jaw pain, trouble eating, and irritation of your gums, tongue, lips, or inner cheeks. Dr. Ahrens will help you reduce your risk of complications by giving you tips on protecting your braces and oral health:
- Brush your teeth twice per day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use a fluoridated toothpaste or mouthwash
- Floss at least once per day
- Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods
- Do not chew on ice, writing implements, or foreign objects or use your teeth to open packages
Traditional Braces vs. Alternatives
Dr. Ahrens will help you compare different types of braces to determine which one is right for you. Here is a brief look at the differences between common orthodontic treatment options:
- Damon Braces vs Traditional Braces – Many people consider Damon braces to be more comfortable, less noticeable, and more efficient. They use a self-ligating system that reduces friction, pressure, and discomfort.
- Self-Ligating Braces vs Traditional Braces – Self-ligating braces do not need rubber bands or ligatures to hold the archwire in place. They may look less noticeable than traditional braces and may be more comfortable.
- Clear Aligners vs Traditional Braces – Clear aligners are soft, flexible, removable trays that fit over the upper and lower teeth. They are worn for 22 hours per day and removed for eating, exercising, playing sports, and completing oral hygiene. They are less noticeable than traditional braces, require fewer dental appointments, and may be more comfortable. However, they cannot treat complex orthodontic issues.
Trust Your Family's Smiles to an Orthodontic Specialist
When it comes to your family’s oral health and smiles, it is important to seek high-level expertise for the best orthodontic results. Dr. Matt Ahrens is a Board Certified Orthodontist, with extensive knowledge and skills in all phases of orthodontics. Choosing a board certified expert offers more accurate diagnoses and treatment planning for your family. Our dedicated team is excited to be your partner in orthodontic health. We welcome you to enjoy a relaxed, enjoyable experience with our practice! We proudly serve Apollo Beach, Gibsonton, Riverview and the surrounding areas.
FAQs about Traditional Braces
When should I begin my treatment?
The decision to begin orthodontic treatment is personalized and varies on each individual and particular situation. With that, our team wants you to know it is never too late to wear braces! While there is no age limit for improving your smile – there are optimal times for treatment. For children, between the ages of 10-14 is considered the optimal time to start to avoid pain and discomfort later in life. For adults, thanks to advancing technology, more adults are getting braces than ever before.
How much do braces cost?
There are several factors that will determine your cost of your braces, including the type/style, current status of your teeth, overall status of your dental hygiene, and method of payment. An estimate for your braces will be discussed during your complimentary consultation.
How often do I have appointments with braces?
Once your treatment has begun, follow up appointments will occur every 4-6 weeks for adjustments, tightening, and tracking overall progress of your treatment.
Which foods can I eat and which foods should I avoid with braces?
When you have braces, it is important to choose foods that are soft and easy to chew to avoid damaging brackets and causing discomfort. If you need braces, our orthodontists will provide you with a list of food you can enjoy and foods you should avoid. Here is a cheat sheet of what to eat and what not to eat:
Foods to avoid:
Hard candies and nuts
Chewy candies (caramels or taffy)
Popcorn
Ice cubes (chewing on ice)
Sticky foods (Gum, Gummy Bears, Raisins)
Hard fruits and vegetables
Foods to eat:
Pasta
Soft vegetables
Soft fruits
Oatmeal
Scrambled eggs
Yogurt
Seafood
Soups
Grains
Soft cheeses
Can I play sports with braces?
Yes! However, you will need to take certain precautions to ensure there is no risk to your braces and teeth. It is important to always wear a mouthguard specifically designed for individuals with braces when playing sports.
How long will the treatment take?
On average it takes between 12 and 36 months to complete treatment. However, this time frame varies from patient to patient and several other factors, including the type of braces, age, complexity of dental issues, and the patient’s ability to follow care instructions.
Do I need to have my wisdom teeth taken out prior to starting braces?
Wisdom teeth do not typically need to be removed before starting braces, however this will be specific to your dental situation. It is best to discuss this question with us at your first consultation!
Traditional braces or Invisalign?
Choosing between traditional braces depends on your specific needs and preferences. Invisalign offers advantages such as it being nearly invisible, more comfortable, and more convenient. Our orthodontists will help you decide what is best suited for your needs when you schedule a free consultation.
What should I expect at a brace’s consultation?
At your free consultation, you can expect to receive quality care in a welcoming environment. Our team at Southshore will evaluate your overall dental health, which may involve taking X-rays and photos. We will discuss your treatment plan and address all questions and concerns you may have regarding your braces journey. We look forward to welcoming you to the SouthShore Orthodontics family!
Schedule a Consultation & Find Out if Braces Are Right for You
Dr. Ahrens is a board-certified orthodontist with years of experience in orthodontic care and treatment. He and his team at South Shore Orthodontics can help you find the best treatment option. We provide personalized treatment options and do everything possible to make your treatment as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Call us now or contact us online to schedule a consultation to determine if traditional braces are right for you.