North Phoenix Orthodontics

Many North Phoenix residents consider orthodontics treatment for cosmetic purposes, in order to bring about straighter teeth for a more attractive smile. While a more aesthetically pleasing smile can be a definite benefit of orthodontics treatment, there are other more important factors to consider. Crowded teeth can be difficult to clean, creating food traps that leave teeth more susceptible to decay.

In addition, North Phoenix orthodontics treatment can correct various bite issues such as underbite, overbite, bruxism and TMJ which can all put undue strain on the muscles of the head, neck and jaw. Modern day orthodontics has continued to evolve from the clunky and uncomfortable braces of years ago. Let’s look at some of the braces used today.

Clear Braces

A newer component to braces is the ceramic bracket. By using clear ceramic brackets along with tooth colored archwires and clear elastics you can have braces that are much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Clear braces use the same dynamics to reposition teeth as traditional braces, but ceramic brackets aren’t as sturdy as metal brackets, so your dentist may adjust them more gradually, which may result in slightly longer treatment time. In addition, you will need to be especially careful about biting into hard foods, and to be fastidious in your oral hygiene since clear brackets and elastics are more easily stained. It’s advisable to refrain from eating and drinking things that are known to stain your teeth. Clear braces will also cost a little more.

Metal Braces

Metal braces continue to be the most common braces used today. They are the quickest and most economical means of repositioning teeth. Thankfully, the metal braces of today are made of the highest quality stainless steel and are smaller and more comfortable than ever before. The brackets are smaller and the archwires are thinner and more flexible. Your dentist will adjust your North Phoenix braces about every six weeks and may possibly add or remove components such as coil springs or power chains as your treatment progresses.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the newest treatment in the orthodontics field. It is especially popular with adults who are more self-conscious about wearing braces. Invisalign treatment is comprised of wearing custom fitted clear aligner trays. You will move into a new tray every few weeks, as each tray is constructed to move your teeth farther along into the desired position. Another plus of Invisalign is that the aligners can be completely removed so that your teeth can be thoroughly brushed and flossed. Of course Invisalign is also more comfortable to wear than wires and brackets, but then there are a few drawbacks. Orthodontics treatment with Invisalign may take longer than traditional braces and is also more expensive. They also require more responsibility on the part of the patient. If they are not worn between 20 and 22 hours every day they will not be effective. And last but not least, some orthodontic problems are not easily corrected with Invisalign.

Aesthetic Dentistry of Arrowhead

To find out if you are a good candidate for Invisalign or if another treatment option would be more suitable, call Aesthetic Dentistry of Arrowhead to schedule a free orthodontic evaluation. It’s never too early or too late for an orthodontic evaluation. Today, it’s common to start orthodontics treatment earlier in childhood in order to prevent more problems later on. It has also become commonplace for adults, including senior citizens, to choose to have their teeth straightened. Sometimes adults are looking for the beautiful smile they have always wished for, while other times they’re hoping to alleviate the pain caused by a bad bite.

Dr. Ceyhan and his team at Aesthetic Dentistry of Arrowhead are highly educated and patient oriented. With your input, our North Phoenix dentist will design a customized orthodontics treatment plan to meet your needs.