What are braces?
Braces are a popular and effective way to straighten your teeth. Using a system of wires, bands, and brackets affixed to your teeth, braces gradually force your teeth into better alignment.
The treatment can take a few months to up to two and a half years depending on your degree of malocclusion.
During treatment with braces, you’ll visit Embassy Row Orthodontics for regular tightening and adjustment appointments.
When they’re first placed, and after each tightening, you might feel some slight discomfort. However, you’ll adjust to them quickly and soon braces will feel natural in your mouth.
Which issues can braces fix?
At Embassy Row Orthodontics, Dr. Hickory uses braces to treat various forms of misalignment. He might encourage you to consider braces if you have:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Crossbite
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Wide spaces between teeth
- Overjet
You might choose to get braces if you’re unhappy with the way your teeth look, or Dr. Hickory might recommend them to you to improve your oral health.
Teeth that are misaligned aren’t just a cosmetic issue. Crooked teeth are more difficult to clean and therefore prone to complications like cavities. If you have teeth that are too crowded or misaligned, it can also lead to wear-and-tear or temporomandibular joint complications.
Which types of braces are available?
During a free consultation, Dr. Hickory helps you decide which type of braces are ideal for your situation. He explains each type and helps you weigh the pros and cons. Depending on your preferences, Dr. Hickory might recommend:
Metal braces
Metal braces are usually what comes to mind first when you think of orthodontic care. The brackets and wires are made of metal, and they include clear or colored bands to keep the archwire in place.
