Orthodontic treatment, braces and clear aligners, in Alliston, ON

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that addresses the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of certain problems of the teeth and jaws, such as crooked or crowded teeth and bite problems.

The abnormal position of the teeth and jaws is very common. Nearly 50% of the developed world’s population, according to the American Association of Orthodontics, has bite problems severe enough to benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Crooked teeth not only look bad but are also hard to clean, developing gum inflammation and bone loss around them. Crooked teeth are more frequently getting cavities because they are hard to clean both with a toothbrush and a professional instrument. They don’t have enough bone around them to provide solid support, which is why they frequently become loose.

The incorrect bite causes grinding, clenching, excessive wear of teeth, overloading of certain teeth, mobility (loose teeth), and fremitus (vibration or movement of the tooth in function). A fremitus is usually caused by occlusal trauma, or when two opposing teeth are smashing together harder than they should be.

Orthodontic treatment does not only straighten teeth and puts jaws in a correct relationship, but also can close gaps between teeth, create space for an implant, upright a tooth, turn a tooth around, and help the eruption of a tooth. Before doing cosmetic treatment, like veneers, it is advisable to align teeth, so that the treatment could be more conservative and preserve more tooth structure.

There are two main ways to do orthodontic treatment: braces and clear aligners (Invisalign).

Dental braces

Dental braces are an orthodontic treatment option that can help you achieve a smile that is straighter and healthier. As one of the most common orthodontic treatment services available, braces work to improve your smile by gradually and gently realigning your teeth. Dental braces consist of a system of metal brackets, wires, and bands. The brackets are attached to the front of your teeth and connect to each other through the use of a metal wire and bands. As we adjust the wire, the system guides your teeth to their ideal positions. Ceramic braces are also often available, which are the same color as your teeth for a more discreet orthodontic option.

Clear aligners (Invisalign)

Clear aligners are an alternative to traditional braces and are designed to help guide teeth into their proper position. Similar to braces, clear aligners use a gradual force to control tooth movement, but without metal wires or brackets. The aligners are made of strong plastic material and are fabricated to fit each individual’s mouth. If a series of aligners are needed, each aligner moves the teeth in increments until the desired movement is achieved.

Aligners are worn for at least 20 hours a day to reach the desired maximum effectiveness. Each aligner is worn for 2-3 weeks before changing to the next one.

Advantages of orthodontic treatment with clear aligners

Clear aligners are a great alternative for patients who want a straighter smile but do not want to wear traditional metal braces. Also, aligners are beneficial for patients with previous orthodontic treatment that want to make minor corrections to their smile. There are several advantages to using clear aligners:

• Clear aligners are removable so it is easier for you to brush and floss after meals
• Clear aligners are easier to keep clean
• Clear aligners are comfortable and less likely to irritate your gums and cheeks
• Clear aligners can prevent tooth wear from grinding