Braces are dental appliances that are used to straighten teeth and improve your bite. They work by exerting light, constant pressure on the tooth roots over a period of time. This causes the bone around the root to change so that the tooth can move into a new position. 

This process is done very slowly so that the jawbone can adapt and reshape around the new bite position.

When treatment is completed and braces are removed, a retainer is typically worn to ensure that the teeth are settled into their new location.

Types of Braces

Braces have come a long way thanks to modern technology. If you do choose to get braces, there are now many types to choose from. Here are some options:

Traditional braces: These devices consist of stainless steel brackets that attach to the front of the teeth. The brackets are then accompanied by light wires that attach to the brackets with tiny rubber bands.

Ceramic braces:  These are just like traditional braces, except that they use ceramic brackets instead of metal ones. The brackets can be clear or tooth-colored, making them less noticeable, and they also come in a variety of colors if you want to make a statement.

Lingual braces: These are another type of brace that uses brackets and wires to correct alignment issues. However, the brackets are attached to the inside of the teeth, making them invisible when you smile. This is a good option for people who don’t want their braces to show.

Dental braces that are custom-made in a dental laboratory usually cost more than braces that are mass-produced. They also usually require more time at each adjustment visit and may be more difficult to keep clean and more uncomfortable to wear. In addition, they may take extra time to complete your tooth movement or alignment. However, not all orthodontists offer this type of brace, and it cannot correct all kinds of orthodontic problems.

“Invisible” retainers are a series of thin, mouthguard-like retainers made of a clear plastic material designed to apply pressure and slowly move the teeth, similar to traditional braces. 

• They are sometimes called “invisible braces”
• Require you to change to a new aligner every 1-3 weeks as the teeth slowly move to new positions.
• Must be worn for about 22 hours a day.
• It cannot correct all kinds of orthodontic problems.

Another delta dental orthodontics options include removable appliances or devices that are anchored into the bone. The average treatment length for most people is 1-3 years, but this will differ based on the patient’s specific needs.

To begin, your dentist or orthodontist will take x-rays and models of your teeth in order to diagnose your bite and/or aesthetic problems. Treatment planning will include a discussion around the timing of your treatment, available options to correct your particular problem, and any concerns or desires you may have (e.g. cost, esthetics, comfort, and time to complete treatment).

There are three typical phases of treatment once you’ve decided to proceed with braces or clear aligners, which are as follows:

• The initial placement of braces or clear aligners
• Periodic adjustments
• Use of retainer after braces are removed

It’s critical that you follow the instructions of your dentist or orthodontist in order to ensure the success and length of your treatment.

Do you think you might need delta dental braces?

 You may be a candidate for this type of delta dental cover braces treatment if you generally have good oral health but have one or more of the following dental problems:

• Overcrowded, crooked, rotated, or misaligned teeth
• Too much space between teeth
• Upper front teeth that overlap the lower teeth too much (overbite)
• Upper front teeth that bite behind the lower ones (underbite)
• Jaw misalignment that causes an uneven bite
• Other variations of the teeth coming together improperly

Does delta dental cover braces only for children?

There’s a common misconception that braces are only for children, but this isn’t the case! If you’re wondering if you’re a good candidate for braces, the best way to find out is by scheduling an appointment with your dentist or orthodontist. They will be able to give you a fair and accurate evaluation. 

Braces have been used successfully for many years and continue to provide excellent results. With so many modern options to choose from in regard to device type and appearance, braces are an excellent option for those who want to improve their oral health and confidence. If you’re interested in learning more about smile alignment and bite correction, braces may be the right choice for you.

If you want to learn more about realigning your smile and fixing your bite, reach out to your dentist or orthodontist. They will be more than happy to answer any questions you might have.

It’s important to remember that while some dentists offer orthodontic services, an orthodontist is a specialist who undergoes 2-3 years of advanced training in procedures affecting tooth movement and jaw growth and development. They usually have the experience and skills needed to safely manage a wide range of simple to complex orthodontic issues.