Braces and Invisalign help address dental problems in teenagers when the teeth and jaw are still growing and more responsive to treatment. Braces for teens can straighten teeth, resulting in enhanced jaw function and a visually appealing look.
How Do Braces Work?
Braces contain brackets, wires, and bands that move teeth into the right position. When the archwire is attached to the brackets and secured with elastic bands or ligatures, it creates tension in the system. This tension exerts a gentle and constant force on the teeth, allowing the braces to work correctly.
The applied force stimulates the surrounding bone cells to undergo bone remodeling. Bone remodeling is the breakdown and rejuvenation of bone tissue, allowing the teeth to move through the bone. As pressure is applied to a tooth, the bone cells on one side of the tooth undergo resorption, meaning they break down and create room. On the other side of the tooth, bone cells deposit new bone tissue. The process of resorption and deposition allows the tooth to shift steadily in the correct direction.
Regular visits to the orthodontist enable adjustments and tightening of the braces. Our qualified team can change the archwire or adjust the tension to guide teeth into their proper positions.
What Are Alternative Options to Braces?
If you are looking for an alternative to braces, Invisalign is an option you can consider. Invisalign uses clear, plastic retainers to gradually move your teeth into the desired position. You only remove the retainers when you are eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. This can be a desirable alternative because the retainers are removable as opposed to the permanent wires and brackets that are used with braces. Contact our team to learn whether braces or Invisalign is the right fit for you.
Who Needs Braces or Invisalign?
Candidates for braces and Invisalign should have healthy gums and teeth to qualify for the treatment. Our experienced orthodontists can examine your dental condition and take X-rays before the procedure. Invisalign and braces are viable options for patients with the following orthodontic issues:
Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth refer to teeth that aren’t aligned well along the dental arch. Teeth could appear rotated, tilted, bent, or displaced from their specific positions. Our orthodontist inserts braces or Invisalign retainers to help shift teeth into their right places for a straighter, more aligned smile. Braces can help reposition the teeth, improving articulation and speech clarity.
Crowded Teeth
Crowded teeth develop when there is inadequate space in the jaw to accommodate all the teeth properly. This issue can cause the teeth to overlap or twist. Crowding can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty accessing areas for brushing and flossing. Invisalign uses clear aligners, and braces utilize brackets and archwires to apply gentle and regular pressure on the teeth, shifting teeth to their places.
Malocclusion
Malocclusion is poor alignment between the upper and lower teeth, resulting in bite problems. Common types of malocclusion are underbite, overbite, crossbite, and open bite. Invisalign and braces can help correct bite issues by repositioning the teeth into the correct bite relationships and aligning the upper and lower arches. An overgrown or underdeveloped jaw is a type of malocclusion that can lead to facial asymmetry and bite issues. Invisalign aligners or metal braces inserted by the team at Orthodontic Specialists can help guide the jaw into the proper position and improve facial balance.
Book an Appointment To Get Braces for Teens
Invisalign and braces for teens can help correct malocclusions, crowded teeth, and crooked teeth, boosting oral health. At Orthodontic Specialists, we offer personalized treatment plans and adjustable pay periods. Contact us today to determine if you are a good candidate for braces or Invisalign. You can also fill out a form online to schedule your consultation.