How to Take Care of Ceramic Braces
How Will Dental Braces Change My Appearance?
Did you know that there’s more to orthodontics than just traditional metal braces? Today, there are more options than ever for people who are interested in straightening their teeth and improving the appearance of their smiles. During your consultation, one of our orthodontists in Fort Wayne, IN, will be able to help you explore your orthodontic treatment options so you can achieve the smile of your dreams.
In the meantime, here’s what you need to know about some of the different treatment options we offer at Parrish Orthodontics.
Traditional Metal Braces
Most people are familiar with . These metal wires and brackets are placed on the surface of your teeth and help guide them into optimal alignment.
As we adjust your braces, you’ll feel temporary pressure on your teeth. This is good as it means your teeth are gently being moved into place.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to avoid foods that are sticky and/or hard to chew. Otherwise, you risk damaging your metal braces between appointments. Be sure to check out our instructions for emergency care.
One of the benefits of traditional metal braces is that they allow our orthodontists to make complex tooth movements. That way, you’re able to achieve your dream smile!
Another benefit is being able to choose the color of your elastics. Many patients enjoy being able to choose elastics that match their school colors, favorite sports team, or upcoming holidays.
Clear Ceramic Braces
Clear ceramic braces match the color of your natural tooth enamel but they're prone to staining if you don’t practice good oral hygiene. For this reason, we recommend that you always brush your teeth after you eat and are mindful of the foods and drinks you consume.
Many of our patients appreciate that ceramic braces are more discreet than their traditional metal counterparts. This allows them to smile without hesitation during orthodontic treatment.
Ceramic braces may be a good fit for either teenage or adult patients who may feel self-conscious with metal braces.
Invisalign® Aligners
One of the main benefits of Invisalign aligners is that you can remove them to eat, brush, and floss. This makes it much easier to maintain good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment. You’ll also be able to continue eating your favorite foods, without worrying about damaging metal wires and brackets.
In order for your to work, you’ll need to wear them as prescribed by our orthodontists. This is typically between 20 and 22 hours per day. If you don’t consistently wear your aligners, your teeth won’t move according to schedule. Also, your clear aligners may feel more tight around your teeth.
Our Other Orthodontic Services
At Parrish Orthodontics, we offer comprehensive services to vastly improve the health and appearance of your smile. Whether you’re searching for an orthodontist for yourself or your children, you can always count on our orthodontists and their team to provide excellent patient care.
Here’s a brief overview of our other services.
Dentofacial Orthopedics
Dentofacial orthopedics is a specialized branch of orthodontics that focuses on the guidance of facial growth and development. By employing appliances designed to modify the relationship between the jawbones, teeth, and facial structures during a patient's growth phase, dentofacial orthopedics aims to achieve harmonious facial aesthetics and proper functional alignment.
Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, combines orthodontic treatment with surgical procedures to correct severe jaw irregularities and facial imbalances. This comprehensive approach addresses both the alignment of teeth and the positioning of the jawbones, ensuring optimal function, facial symmetry, and a balanced profile.
Craniofacial Orthodontics
Craniofacial devices encompass a range of specialized orthodontic appliances designed to address anomalies in the skull and facial structures. These devices play a crucial role in the treatment of congenital conditions, trauma-related injuries, or developmental abnormalities, contributing to the restoration of facial harmony and proper functioning.
Temporary Anchorage Devices
Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) are miniature implants used in orthodontics to provide additional support and anchorage during tooth movement. By temporarily fixing these devices in the jawbone, orthodontists can achieve precise control over tooth positioning, facilitating more efficient and predictable orthodontic outcomes.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea treatment within the realm of orthodontics involves the use of custom oral appliances to alleviate breathing obstructions during sleep. These devices, often worn like a mouth guard, reposition the jaw and tongue to maintain an open airway, providing relief for individuals with obstructive sleep apnea and promoting healthier sleep patterns.
TMD Treatment
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) treatment in orthodontics addresses issues related to the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Through a combination of orthodontic techniques, jaw exercises, and, in some cases, the use of oral appliances, TMD treatment aims to alleviate pain, restore proper jaw function, and enhance overall oral health.
Request an Appointment With Us
Still have questions about your orthodontic treatment options? Good news! Our , and surrounding areas are accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, please call Parrish Orthodontics at (260) 447-2568. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.