Tuesday, March 22, 2022

Orthodontic Treatment Options

A variety of orthodontic options exist today for people looking to correct their smile. From traditional metal braces to Invisalign aligners, it can be a challenge to decide which choice is the best. At Kelly Orthodontics, we know about all of the treatment options on the market, and which is the best option for your specific orthodontic problem.

Metal Braces - Metal braces are the most common type of braces because they are robust and very effective. Metal braces are made of sleek surgical steel and titanium and are comfortable to wear. Metal braces are bonded to the teeth and connected with a metal archwire brought into place with tiny elastic bands. Metal braces require periodic tightening every 4 to 6 weeks. The steady pressure will gradually straighten your teeth and align your jaw over time. Metal braces can correct a wide variety of issues, including jaw problems,crooked teeth, and bite misalignments. Silver braces are a proven method for getting a lifelong, healthy bite.

Ceramic Braces - Clear ceramic braces are a popular choice for teens who want to make a lasting impression and adults who want to make a less noticeable statement during treatment. Ceramic Braces work like metal braces only better, because they blend in with your natural tooth color for a great look. Ceramic Braces are similar to Silver braces in their application, duration of treatment, and removal and are used to correct the same dental issues as metal braces and invisible aligners. Since ceramic braces are designed to blend seamlessly into your smile, Dr. Kelly will select the perfect shade to match your natural tooth color. For those with naturally whiter teeth, a clear ceramic is used to render the brackets almost invisible. Those with darker tooth shades have the option to select colored ceramic matched to their teeth for best aesthetic results. The metal archwire is similarly colored to complement your teeth, and the elastic bands are typically clear.

Clear Aligners - Unlike silver and ceramic braces, clear aligners, like Invisalign, use clear trays to help you achieve a straight smile. The clear aligner trays are removable, which means that when you need to take them out, you can. It also means that you can continue to take care of your teeth normally, and continue to eat the wonderful foods you love. Typically, clear aligners work faster than traditional braces, meaning that you can effectively straighten your teeth faster. Each set of aligner trays are designed to fit your mouth and your teeth comfortably. Clear aligners have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.

Which orthodontic treatment option is best for you?

Dr. Kelly uses of the full range of orthodontic appliances to get you a great outcome in the shortest possible amount of time. Based on his specialty education in orthodontics, Dr. Kelly will recommend the treatment option he believes is the best fit for you and your lifestyle.

 
Book an initial consultation with Kelly Orthodontics to talk about your options regarding orthodontic treatment. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

 

Thursday, March 3, 2022

What is Invisalign First?

Kelly Orthodontics

Replacing the need for bulky metal expanders, headgear, or braces, Invisalign First was developed for children between the ages of 6-10 who experience issues with alignment, crowding, spacing, arch development, and expansion. 

Invisalign First aligners are:

  • Designed to treat a broad range of teeth straightening issues in growing children, from simple to complex, including crowding, spacing, and narrow dental arches.
  • Removable for easy hygiene, making it easier for growing children to brush and floss.
  • Designed for comfort – which means no discomfort from rubbing brackets or poking wires.
  • Can help with oral habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.

Invisalign First is a Phase 1 orthodontic treatment. Phase 1 treatment refers to orthodontic treatment at an age before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Phase I treatment can take advantage of growth potential and turn a difficult orthodontic problem into a more manageable one. Dr. Kelly can often correct major problems such as crossbites or severe skeletal issues, as well as incisor alignment, making Phase II treatment more productive to ensure better overall results.

An initial consultation is needed to determine if your child is an appropriate candidate for Invisalign First. If approved, Dr. Kelly can begin taking pictures, x-rays, and impressions of your child’s smile that same day. Information from the imaging, x-rays, and impressions will go to an Invisalign lab where a custom Invisalign First device, called an aligner, will be made for your child.

Depending on your child’s individual treatment plan, he or she may require a full pair of aligners or just one aligner. The aligners will provide gentle pressure to expand the jawline, with each new aligner moving the jaw and permanent teeth closer to the desired position. With Invisalign First, treatment time normally takes 6-9 months to complete.

Invisalign First is only available for growing children. For adults and teens who are seeking orthodontic corrections, Kelly Orthodontics offers alternative treatment options, such as Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, clear ceramic braces, and traditional metal braces. Visit our website to choose your look.

 

 

Technology That Enhances Your Orthodontic Experience

Kelly Orthodontics Technology has come a long way in orthodontics since the days of bulky brackets, goopy impressions, and embarrassing ap...