While there are lots of new, innovative ways to straighten teeth and align your bite, traditional metal braces still remain the best and most reliable way to get the results you’re looking for. In the past, metal braces have been both uncomfortable and unsightly, but today’s braces have been significantly improved upon to offer smaller, less visible and less invasive brackets. Dr. Kraus can also show you all the ways you can minimize discomfort during your treatment, ensuring your mouth stays pain free while your teeth move into place.
At Kraus Orthodontics, we provide traditional braces to patients of all ages. While Invisalign is a great option for many of our Allen, TX patients, the clear aligners are not the best option for everyone, especially patients with severe misalignments. No need to worry, though, as traditional braces are an efficient means to improving smiles. Let’s take a closer look.
How Do Braces Work?
Traditional braces are consist of brackets and wires attached to your teeth that use pressure to move your teeth into new positions. The brackets are strategically positioned on your teeth by Dr. Kraus and bonded to your teeth using a special glue. A metal wire, called an archwire, is then placed in the brackets. This exerts a constant yet gentle pressure on the teeth, which gradually guides them into a new, straightened position. Every 1-2 months, this wire will be switched out for a new one as your bite, jaw and teeth start to move. At the end of your treatment, you’ll have a set of straight teeth, reduced spaces or crowding, improved facial appearance, and better bite alignment—all leading to a perfect, healthy smile!
What Are the Benefits of Traditional Braces?
Though some patients may feel discomfort upon getting braces, it often subsides shortly after as your mouth adjusts to the new appliance. Fortunately, the benefits of traditional braces and the smile you’ll attain will surely outweigh the initial discomfort. Traditional metal braces are the most effective method of straightening teeth. They can correct a broad range of bite and alignment issues that Invisalign cannot. Additional advantages of traditional braces are provided below.
Improved Oral Health
Misaligned and crowded teeth can create unusual and hard-to-reach spaces throughout your mouth, making routine dental hygiene more difficult and less effective. Plaque can then build up in those spaces and lead to tooth decay. In straightening teeth and reducing overcrowding, regular brushing and flossing work better to keep you cavity free. As a bonus, a healthy mouth is great for your overall health!
Braces are For Everyone!
As mentioned, while Invisalign is a great option for patients who qualify, the aligners can’t correct every orthodontic issue. Not only that, but younger patients are rarely candidates for Invisalign. Braces, however, are a great option for any age.
Braces are also the most cost-effective way to straighten teeth and create a perfect smile. The bands which wrap around brackets are colored and are changed out at every appointment, which is often fun for children who may feel apprehensive about orthodontic treatment.
Caring for Your Braces
Though the advantages of braces are far reaching, patients must properly care for their braces to ensure they stay on track with their treatment plan. Even with how sturdy traditional braces are, they need to be taken care of. Additionally, they need to be cleaned! As with misaligned and crowded teeth, braces create hard-to-reach areas when brushing and flossing. This means you need to be extra thorough with your oral hygiene practices. For help, we’ve provided some resources below:
What Is the First Step to Getting Braces in Allen, TX?
If you’ve been considering braces or any other orthodontic treatment, the best step to take first is to call Dr. Kraus in Allen, TX for a consultation. He’ll sit with you and personally discuss all your options as well as which treatment plan will best fit your needs. If you decide to move forward with treatment, you can set up your first appointment immediately and be on your way to a healthier, happier smile!
If you’re ready to schedule a consultation, call our offices today at 469-619-9959. Dr. Kraus will be happy to discuss all your options with you.