It is common knowledge that braces are a tried and true way to straighten your teeth. But, did you know that braces also lead to better oral health? Visit Dr. Ruchir Patel and Dr. Kal Thakkar at iClear Orthodontics, conveniently located in Alpharetta, Roswell, and Kennesaw, to learn how braces can get you on track for a healthy smile.
Crooked teeth, overbites, underbites and misaligned jaws, also known as malocclusion or “bad bite”, are common dental occurrences that send millions of people to orthodontists for treatment each year. Dental braces are one of the tools that orthodontists use to correct malocclusion.
Braces are made up of brackets that are bonded to your teeth with a special type of glue and wires that are threaded through the brackets. The wires work, sometimes in conjunction with rubber bands or other attachments, by applying gentle pressure to gradually move your teeth and jawbone into alignment over time.
Although all braces have some type of bracket and wire system, many different types of brackets and wires are now available. When most people think of braces, they envision the traditional metal brackets and wires. Today, however, many bracket styles are available. Clear ceramic braces are available to patients who want their braces to blend in, while bright colors and fancy shapes are available to patients who want to make a fashion statement.
The process of having braces bonded to your teeth is painless and can take from one to two hours. During the process, your teeth will be polished and dried. They will then be treated with a conditioner and primer that allow the cement on the back of the brackets to stick. The brackets are placed onto your teeth, and excess glue is removed. In some cases, a special ultraviolet light is used to help the glue dry. Wires are threaded through the brackets, and any necessary attachments are added.
In some cases, patients will have spacers inserted the week before braces are attached. When the separators are removed, bands will be placed on the molars or spaces will be left to make room for upcoming movement.
Braces do much more than straighten your teeth and improve your appearance. They can correct or prevent a variety of dental issues including:
Oral hygiene – Crowded teeth are difficult to brush and floss, which can cause plaque build-up and associated gum disease. Gum damage – An over or underbite can lead to gum recession. Jaw pain – If your bite does not line up properly, excess stress can be put on your jawbone causing damage and pain. This is also known as temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder or TMJ. Tooth erosion – If your bite is not aligned, you may grind or clench your teeth in your sleep. Grinding and clenching can both put excessive and uneven wear on your teeth. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF WEARING BRACES? Wearing braces to straighten your teeth can lead to a beautiful smile for the rest of your life and so much more. When your braces are removed, your teeth will be easier to brush and floss, leading to healthier gums. Correcting your bite can also help prevent future TMJ. Best of all, wearing braces can give your self-esteem a boost. When you look good, you feel good!
Braces are a proven orthodontic treatment for children, teens and adults and are effective in treating:
Gaps between teeth Crowded teeth Bite problems, such as overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite Coming in for an evaluation with Dr. Patel and Dr. Thakkar is the best way to determine whether you have any of these issues and to understand how braces can play a role in correcting your teeth.
Brushing and flossing are especially important when braces are being worn to avoid cavities. Because cleaning under the wires and around the brackets can be tricky, Dr. Patel and Dr. Thakkar may recommend using a WaterPik® and special flosser that slides easily beneath the wires.
You will also be given a list of foods that should be avoided. The list will include items that can loosen your brackets or break your wires.
The cost of braces treatment varies based on the severity of your malocclusion, the length of your treatment, whether any additional devices are required and other factors.
Dental insurance sometimes covers a portion or the full cost of braces, so it is always important to check your policy’s coverage. If you have Flexible Spending Account dollars available through your employer, your pre-tax dollars can be applied to the cost of braces.
To give all patients access to quality orthodontic treatment, iClear Orthodontics offers many payment plans to help make braces more affordable. iClear Orthodontics offers interest-free in-house financing, which divides the total cost of treatment into reasonable monthly payments for the duration of your treatment.
Options also exist to extend payments beyond your treatment period. In addition to traditional credit cards, iClear Orthodontics accepts CareCredit® cards that extend financing up to 60 months with a reduced APR and fixed monthly payments. Customizable OrthoFi is available to design a flexible payment plan. With OrthoFi, you are able to select the down payment and ongoing monthly payment amounts.
If you live in the Greater Atlanta area and would like a complimentary braces consultation, contact Dr. Ruchir Patel and Dr. Kal Thakkar at an iClear Orthodontics office located in Alpharetta, Roswell, and Kennesaw to schedule an appointment Monday through Saturday.
