When we use the word "braces," we tend to think of
the traditional wire and bracket kind. But there are new variations on
this traditional technique. One popular option these days is what is
called Invisalign® invisible braces. Invisalign
makes a system of clear, computer manufactured aligners. They use sophisticated
imaging software that creates a series of clear plastic splints that are truly
invisible at conversational distance. When you put the aligner in, it is
molded to push your teeth into a slightly new position. Every two weeks
you change the aligners and gradually your teeth are moved to where they
are perfectly straight. The Invisalign system doesn't work for every case, but for
many people they are a new way to straighten your teeth. Some people
misspell this by writing Invisaline. We
also have related information posted on our
invisible braces page.
There are also lingual braces that are worn on the
insides of the teeth. These are very uncomfortable and irritating to the
tongue, but they are completely invisible to others.
When you are wearing braces, it is especially
important to keep your teeth clean. If you don't, several serious problems
can develop. They attract food particles which can promote serious
tooth decay around the brackets. The
decaying food particles can also create
white spots or
brown spots that will be ugly blotches on your teeth when you are done
with orthodontic treatment. As these food particles decay they can also
promote bad breath. See our page devoted to
braces and bad breath.
Some orthodontists are recommending the use of
Tooth Mousse to treat
or prevent these white spots.
This information is provided for you by the mynewsmile.com
cosmetic
dentist referral service, and was personally written by Dr. David Hall.
If your teeth are straightened with braces, their new straight position
needs to be maintained, often with what are called
retainers. Even later
in life your teeth can go crooked again because of
adult tooth movement.
Read about the use of
microabrasion to treat white spots on teeth.
Read Dr. Hall's blog posts about
braces, where he answers
questions from visitors.
