When I was growing up (the years are military secrets) braces were seen as punishment for crooked teeth. They took forever! They were often heavy and uncomfortable, occasionally painful and usually meant being called such wonderful names as "Brace Face" or "Metal Mouth". And this was from your parents! Fortunately we as a profession have moved forward. The technological advances in dentistry and orthodontics have been remarkable. Braces are still utilized and appropriately so to straighten teeth. With new nickel-titanium wires, the treatment time is dramatically shortened. However it is also possible to treat many malocclusions without using braces.
Between the ages of 8-12, patients are treated with appliances to create the proper arch form. This is referred to as Phase 1. When it is time for Phase 2, patients can choose braces or a series of plastic trays. These are called "aligners". Most people have heard of invisalign. Invisalign uses a series of plastic trays that fit over the teeth and sequentially move them. I use a product called "Bioliners" which uses the same principle as invisalign. I like this product better as the aligners are made directly from impressions and not a computer model that predicts the movement of the teeth. I feel that the bioliners give me more control over the process. I have found that phase 1 appliance therapy and phase 2 bioliners is a good combination in treating some patients. The options are discussed during the consultation appointment before any treatment is started.
Please contact the office if you desire further information or would like to schedule an appointment.
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