What is Orthodontics? |
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Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental irregularities.
Tooth movement is accomplished by light pressure exerted on the teeth. The pressure is applied by a variety of orthodontic appliances that have progressed by use of space aged research to apply gentile forces over the course of treatment.
At Dental Image we have many types of orthodontic treatment. Patients can consult with our specialist for choosing of suitable treatment. |
Conventional Metal braces:
Metal brackets are very strong and can withstand most types of treatment. At first they may irritate your gums, but after a few weeks, when your cheeks get "toughened up" they are not a problem anymore. Most traditional metal braces require an elastic o-shaped rubber band, called a ligature to hold the arch wire onto the bracket. Sometimes orthodontists use metal tie wires (little wires which are twisted around the bracket) in place of elastic ligatures.
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Damon System:
You may have heard of "speed braces." These are sometimes also referred to as "self-ligating brackets" or "Damon Brackets." Self-ligating means that the brackets do not need the little o-shaped rubber bands (ligatures) or metal tie wires to hold the arch wire onto the bracket.By using self-ligation technology, the brackets allow the wire to slide back and forth. This advancement allows for fewer adjustments and less appointments.
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Recently the Ormco company came out with a new type of Damon bracket, Damon 3, which is part ceramic (clear or tooth-colored) and part metal. These brackets appear smaller on the teeth and are supposed to be more comfortable for the patient. |
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Ceramic (Tooth colored) braces:
Ceramic brackets are made of composite materials. They are very strong and generally do not stain. Three popular brands are Clarity and Transcend, made by 3M Unitek; and Mystique, made by GAC. Adults like to choose ceramic because they "blend in" with the teeth and are less noticeable than metal. These are the type of braces actor Tom Cruise had.
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Invisalign:
Invisalign braces are great for people who do not have severe problems. The "braces" consist of strong plastic trays that are fabricated especially for you. They are indeed invisible. If your bite is not severely off and your teeth are not severely crooked, then Invisalign would be a good choice. You would be able to get your teeth straightened without anyone seeing that you are wearing "braces"! This appeals to many adults, especially people who wore traditional braces as children and then need more treatment later in life. However, if your bite is very bad, if you need extractions or require headgear or other appliances, then Invisalign will not work for you; you will need to wear traditional braces. |
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Ligual braces:
Lingual braces are placed behind your teeth, and are therefore virtually invisible to other people. Usually, lingual brackets are made of metal. Orthodontists need special training to be able to treat patients with lingual braces. Therefore, not every orthodontist provides them.
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