Arrowhead Orthodontics

Years ago the choices in North Phoenix orthodontics treatments were limited to clunky metal braces. Orthodontics have come a long way since then and today there are several different treatment options available. Adults are a growing segment of North Phoenix orthodontics patients and many adults are concerned with their image when they choose to undergo orthodontics treatment.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are still by far the most popular choice to straighten teeth. Metal braces are the least costly, they straighten teeth in the shortest time, and are able to correct more complex issues than other types of braces. They also aren’t as uncomfortable as they used to be. Today’s metal brackets are made of high quality stainless steel, are comfortably smooth, and are much smaller than old-fashioned metal brackets. Often even adults would rather save the time and money while achieving straight teeth in the shortest possible time. Metal braces also remove the responsibility of wearing them the required time since there isn’t any choice.

Metal braces consist of the brackets which will be glued to your teeth and an archwire that is attached to each bracket with small elastics. The archwire is what will be adjusted every 4 to 6 weeks in order to move your teeth.

While the economy and possibly shorter treatment time, along with the ability to treat more complex orthodontic cases make Arrowhead metal braces the most popular, the drawbacks include the fact that they can be uncomfortable, especially in the beginning, until the inside of your lips and cheeks toughen up. Your dentist will supply you with dental wax that can be helpful if a particular area is being irritated.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a favorite choice among adults. That’s because Invisalign was created to be invisible. Your dentist will use impressions and X-rays to generate a precise 3-D image of your teeth in order to configure your aligner trays. During treatment with Invisalign you will wear plastic aligner trays 22 hours each day. They are only meant to be removed for eating and brushing. Invisalign aligner trays are made of smooth, BPA free, clear plastic. About every two weeks you will change to a new aligner tray, with each new tray moving your teeth closer to the desired position. You will also visit your dentist about every six weeks so that he can review your progress.

While many people enjoy the comfort and aesthetics of Invisalign treatment, keep in mind that Invisalign treatment usually takes slightly longer than traditional Arrowhead braces and is also more costly. In addition, it’s often not a good choice for children or teenagers since it requires strict diligence to wear them 22 hours each day.

Clear Braces

Clear braces are similar to metal braces in that they consist of brackets and an archwire, but the difference is that the brackets are made of see through acrylic and the archwire is often tooth colored, which works together to make them much less noticeable than metal braces. Acrylic brackets are also available in colors to match your teeth if you prefer.

Since clear braces work on the same principle as metal braces in Arrowhead you would think they would work just as quickly, but that isn’t the case. Clear brackets made of acrylic are more easily broken than metal brackets, so your dentist will have to adjust them more gently, probably adding time to your orthodontic treatment, and like Invisalign they may not be suitable to correct some orthodontic problems. Some of their other drawbacks include the fact that they are more expensive than metal braces, and that the clear elastics stain more easily. Due to this type of braces not being as durable and staining more easily, you’ll have to be much more careful in your choice of food and beverages.

Call Aesthetic Dentistry of Arrowhead to schedule a free orthodontics evaluation with Dr. Ceyhan to find out what treatment options are best suited to you. Dr. Ceyhan understands your concerns about the aesthetics of braces and the outcome of straightening your teeth, but he also understands the importance of overall oral health. Having properly spaced, straight teeth and proper jaw alignment will influence not only your appearance, but your comfort and well-being for the rest of your life.