Traditional Braces
 Straightening crooked teeth is important for improving the appearance of your smile as well as the health and functioning of your mouth. Senestraro Family Orthodontics provides many different options to help straighten your teeth. Despite the many options available, one of the most popular is still traditional braces.
How Traditional Braces Work
Traditional braces use three basic components. They involve the use of metal brackets, which are bonded to your teeth. The brackets function to hold the archwire or the wire that stretches across your teeth, in place. The arch wire is the part of your braces that do most of the work. They put pressure on your teeth, which helps to shift them to where they need to go. The wires are held in place on the brackets with elastic bands called ligatures. Some patients may also require the use of springs, rubber bands, or other appliances that attach to the braces to help adjust the alignment of their teeth and jaws.
How Long Does Treatment with Traditional Braces Take?
Treatment times with traditional braces vary from patient to patient. The length of your treatment depends upon the severity of your alignment issues, your age, and how well you take care of your mouth during your treatment. Typically, treatment takes anywhere from one to three years.
Who Can Get Traditional Braces?
Anyone can get traditional braces. They are typically associated with younger patients, around the ages of 11 and 13. While a majority of patients wearing traditional braces are younger, braces can also be worn by older teens and even adults. No matter what your age, braces can help you to achieve the straighter, healthier, more beautiful smile you have been looking for.
The Pros and Cons of Traditional Braces
Traditional braces remain one of the most popular orthodontic treatments available. There are many reasons for this. They are incredibly effective. They can treat a broad range of orthodontic issues, including those that are more severe. Traditional metal braces are durable. They're fixed in place. You do not have to spend much time thinking about them because they are always there. You do not have to worry about forgetting to put them in or losing them. For younger patients, the ligatures are available in many colors. This allows patients to express their personalities. Braces are also one of the most affordable orthodontic treatments available.
There are also a few disadvantages to braces. Because they are metal, they stand out. This can make patients, particularly older patients, self-conscious. They can overtake your smile and become the thing that others focus on most. The brackets can irritate the insides of your cheeks and lips, causing painful sores. You have to take extra care when you brush and floss. Flossing can be particularly difficult as you need to thread the floss underneath the wires between each bracket. You also need to be careful with what you eat and may need to stay away from many of the foods you normally enjoy until your treatment is complete.
For more information about traditional braces, and to find out if they are right for you or your child, call Senestraro Family Orthodontics at (503) 925-8899 today to schedule your consultation. |
