Having crocked teeth is the sources of many peoples self esteem issues. It is better to have ones teeth fixed sooner than later, but even if one chooses later on their life to fix their teeth braces may still be an option. If a persons teeth are crocked or the person has an over or under bite leading Tarzana dentist may refer their patient to an orthodontist in order to correctly align their teeth. The orthodontist will asks questions about ones current health, conduct a clinical exam, gather impressions of the teeth and order x-rays of ones mouth and head. Based on the analysis the orthodontist retrieves a treatment plan is made.
In some rare cases a removable retainer is all that is needed, but in other cases especially where there is an extreme under or over bite surgery may be necessary; however, in most cases braces are needed. There are two options for braces available, traditional metal braces which consists of wires and other fixed or removable corrective appliances, and then there are invisible braces.
Leading cosmetic dentist Encino inform that leading braces work by applying continuous pressure over a long period of time to slowly move teeth in a specific direction. As the teeth move, the bony tooth changes shape as pressure is applied. Encino cosmetic braces consist of:
- Brackets: brackets are the small squares that are bonded to the front of each tooth with a special bonding agent or are attached to orthodontic bands, these brackets hold the arch wire that move the teeth. There are several types of brackets which include: stainless steel, tooth colored ceramic or plastic. In some cases brackets are cemented to the back of the teeth to hide them from view.
- Orthodontic bands: Bands that are cemented or bonded to the teeth. They wrap around each tooth providing an anchor for the brackets. The clear or tooth colored bands are more expensive options for those who are looking to keep them discreet. They are not used on every patient but only on those who orthodontists see fit for.
- Spacers: Separators that fit between teeth creating a small space before the placement of bands.
- Arch Wire: all Tarzana braces have arch wires that attach to the brackets and act as tracks to guide the movement of the teeth. Arch wires too can be made of metal a patient can chose a more expensive but cosmetically appealing option.
- Ties: small rubber rings or wire that tighten the arch wire to the brackets.
- Bruccal tube: a bruccal tube is placed on the band of the last tooth and holds the end of each wire securely.
- Rubber bands: also called ligatures hold each wire to the bracket.
- Springs: are sometimes placed on the arch wires between brackets to push, pull, open or close the spaces between teeth.
Sometimes for severe cases of crocked teeth, under or over bite included on the braces is head gear.