Traditional metal braces have spent decades earning their reliable and durable reputation. They may have changed over time but they still have many benefits and can treat even the most complex orthodontic issues.
For years, people have been discouraged from obtaining orthodontic care because of uncomfortable and highly noticeable equipment, such as headgear. Fortunately, just like everything else, orthodontic care changes as time passes. Braces are now more comfortable and efficient than ever and are always a fantastic treatment option.
At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, we firmly believe that there should not be any shame in orthodontic treatment, and everyone should feel confident before, during, and after treatment. However, we are excited to tell you about some of the latest advancements that offer discreet treatment.
Temporary Anchorage Devices
Like braces, headgear is still a valuable member of the orthodontic community, but for less complicated issues, Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) can subtly achieve the same goal. TADs are fixed titanium pieces of metal that Dr. Ross will place in your or your child’s mouth. The device can be paired with braces or another headgear alternative.
Sometimes no amount of planning can prevent unwanted movement to the back teeth when we begin aligning your teeth. TADs are used to stop this movement. The devices are low maintenance, reduce discomfort during the aligning process, and can speed up your overall treatment time because they stop undesired changes.
Clear Braces
Clear, also known as ceramic, braces function similarly to traditional metal braces. Their most significant difference is their brackets and ligatures. Metal braces use metal brackets, often made of stainless steel or a blend of other durable metals, and ligatures, the colorful bands that attach the wire to the brackets. Clear braces use polycrystalline alumina, a tooth-colored material, and matching ligatures to create the illusion of clear braces.
Their stain-resistant material is less durable than metal braces, but some patients find the rounded design of their brackets to be more comfortable. These braces provide a more aesthetically pleasing option if you do not qualify or want to avoid the responsibility of clear aligners.
InBrace Hidden Braces
If clear braces are too visible for your linking and you want a fixed orthodontic appliance, consider InBrace. These braces are placed behind your teeth for a completely hidden treatment option. Because they are self-litigating, no colorful ligatures will draw anyone’s attention.
InBraces are 100% customized for your teeth so that each bracket can be precisely placed for the most accurate, efficient, and comfortable treatment. Your personalized Smartwire is made of a shape memory material, which applies constant pressure to your teeth.
To create these unique braces, Dr. Ross will take a digital scan of your teeth to construct a 3D model that he will use to design your orthodontic appliance and plan your treatment.
InBrace is perfect for patients who want a fixed appliance but don’t want people to know they are undergoing treatment.
Invisalign
Clear aligners are removable, translucent plastic trays that straighten the teeth by applying pressure. At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, we are proud to be providers of Invisalign for children, teens, and adults!
Invisalign trays are all custom-made for every patient’s unique mouth and smile goals. Our experienced team will take X-rays and photos of your teeth, gums, and jaw. This detailed and comprehensive look at your oral health allows Dr. Ross to spot potential issues before treatment begins! We will then use the images to create a 3D representation for Dr. Ross to efficiently and accurately plan your treatment program. As a member of the top 1% of Invisalign providers, Dr. Ross has the expertise to build your perfect program. He can even show you a digital model of your predicted final look! Once satisfied with your personalized plan, he will order your first set of trays.
While it is important to wear the trays for twenty to twenty-two hours a day, their removability offers some benefits, such as no food restrictions and low-maintenance appliance care. As long as you wear the aligners, treatment with Invisalign can take as little as six months thanks to their SmartTrack feature, which applies consistent force on the teeth for speedy, comfortable movement.
Clear aligners have become an increasingly popular option in recent years and the perfect choice for patients with less complex issues.
Visit us at Smiles of Palmetto Bay to discover the best treatment option for you!
We strive to stay up-to-date on the latest orthodontic technology to treat a broader range of patients with the best modern care. As new information and equipment come out, we will continue to update our practices, so you can always be confident you and your family are receiving an unmatched quality of care.
At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, we take pride in creating a welcoming environment for patients of all ages. We take your care very seriously and know that priceless care starts with expert information. Schedule a virtual or in-person free consultation to learn more about recent advancements, our offices, and your treatment options.