Braces
Types of braces
There has never been a better time to straighten your smile! Your Fredericksburg orthodontist is pleased to offer several options for orthodontic treatment, including metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, Iconix aesthetic braces and Invisalign®. Braces are time-tested, durable and straighten teeth better than ever. Metal braces remain the most popular choice in orthodontic treatment today.
Metal braces
Also known as silver-colored metal braces, metal braces are the most common type of dental braces used in orthodontic treatment. With advancements in materials and design, metal brackets are durable and more comfortable than ever before. Metal brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth and act as anchors holding the archwire in place. The archwire is designed with shape memory so that it applies consistent, gentle pressure throughout the duration of treatment. Perhaps the best part of metal braces is the colorful elastics that you can choose from at each appointment. The elastics are placed around each bracket to secure the archwire in place.
Ceramic (clear) braces
Clear ceramic braces work the same way as metal braces, but offer a cosmetic alternative to the metal. The clear brackets are bonded to the front teeth, and the archwire is secured with white or clear elastics for a less noticeable look. Ceramic braces are slightly less durable than metal brackets due to the material composition. The ceramic material is more brittle than metal; therefore, our ceramic braces are offered to older adolescents, teens and adults who have cosmetic concerns or who are looking for a discreet way to align their smiles. This orthodontic option has become a favorite for adults because, unless you look closely, it is hard to notice they are there!
Iconix braces
Did you know you can get “white gold” brackets during your orthodontic treatment? Fredericksburg Orthodontics offers high-quality stainless steel champagne-colored brackets that merge the durability of stainless steel and the elegance of white gold aesthetics. This upgrade is unique and sophisticated, adding a refined appearance to your smile.
The Iconix Aesthetic Braces option can be paired with a gold archwire and clear ligatures (elastics) for a cosmetic look that rivals ceramic brackets. Fredericksburg Orthodontics is proud to be the number one provider of champagne gold braces in the state of Virginia.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces are placed on the back side of the teeth so they are completely invisible when you smile. Lingual braces, such as InBrace®, straighten teeth just like metal braces. A small custom-made bracket is placed on the back of the upper and lower teeth. The orthodontist has full control of the movement of your teeth.
These behind-the-teeth braces may require a small adjustment period since they are on the inside of the mouth, but patients adjust quickly and appreciate the cosmetic advantage. The same good hygiene habits, such as flossing and regular brushing are required.
The field of orthodontics is rapidly advancing and evolving as new materials and techniques offer shorter treatment duration and unprecedented comfort. Brackets are smaller, sleeker and low profile with smooth, rounded edges to reduce irritation to the inside of the cheeks. Each bracket is uniquely engineered to place the right amount of force on each tooth throughout treatment.
What can braces treat?
Fredericksburg Orthodontics uses state-of-the-art technology to create beautiful, healthy smiles. We offer the latest in advanced techniques and types of braces to accommodate all of the needs of our patients. Modern braces treatment can successfully treat many orthodontic issues, including:
What to expect when you get braces
Getting braces is an exciting time as you adjust to the new appliances in your mouth and watch your smile gradually take shape. At your first appointment, we may place spacers to make room for the bands that fit around your back molars. You are likely to hear a lot of new vocabulary during orthodontic treatment. As we place your new orthodontic appliances, we will explain their function and how it works. Here are some common terms you will hear and their meaning:
What foods can I eat with braces?
It is always important to maintain a balanced and healthy diet of fruits and vegetables. Most foods, when cut into small bite-sized pieces, are safe to eat. Fredericksburg Orthodontics suggests the following food tips during orthodontic treatment.
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Hygiene with braces
Oral hygiene can play a significant role in the success of your orthodontic treatment. Maintaining the good oral hygiene habits of brushing twice a day and flossing daily are game changers when it comes to your final results. Having braces means food particles naturally have more places to hide. If food debris is not removed, it can cause an increase of plaque and tartar which ultimately leads to decay.
Flossing is equally important during orthodontic treatment. We understand that flossing is not easy with braces; however, there are several tools you can use to help you floss. A floss threader helps guide the floss under the archwire so you can floss normally between teeth. Tools that are useful in cleaning between teeth are Interdental cleaners. Some have a small brush that can be used to clean small gaps between teeth, around the gums and the area around each bracket. Oral irrigation devices such as a water pick or water jets are proven to safely and effectively remove plaque and dilute acids in the mouth, which cause decay.
Daily brushing and flossing will help you achieve a healthy smile and give you the best possible end results.
Schedule your complimentary braces consultation
At Fredericksburg Orthodontics, located in Fredericksburg, VA, our mission is to provide the highest quality orthodontic treatment for children, teens and adults. Dr. Almy, Dr. Arroyo-Pratt and their team look forward to discussing the different types of orthodontic treatment and what will work best for you. Schedule your complimentary consultation today!