Braces are the classic orthodontic treatment for straightening your teeth and properly aligning your smile. And with the advancements in orthodontic technology over the past few years, today’s braces are more comfortable and efficient than ever. If you’re considering braces, schedule a visit with Michael Abrams, DDS, or Elizabeth Abrams, DDS, at Manhasset Dental Arts. The skilled dental team uses braces to help patients get smiles that are healthier and more attractive. To learn more, schedule a visit today by calling the office in Manhasset, New York, or booking a visit online.
Request an AppointmentWhat are braces?
Braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments for straightening teeth and bites that are crooked or misaligned.
They’re composed of brackets that are bonded to the front portion of your tooth and an archwire that’s threaded through the brackets. A series of bands wrap around the brackets to keep the archwire in place. When the archwire is tightened, it puts pressure on your teeth, which gradually moves them into a straighter position over a period of time.
You’ll schedule appointments at Manhasset Dental Arts every month during your treatment to have your braces adjusted as your teeth move closer to their target alignment. Treatment with braces can take anywhere from a few years to a few months, depending on the condition of your teeth.
What types of braces are available?
A couple of the most common types of braces include:
Metal braces
These are the most common type of braces. They’re composed of high-grade stainless steel, and give you the option to use colored elastics for a more unique and customizable smile during your treatment.
Aesthetic braces
Aesthetic braces use brackets made of transparent ceramic that are less visible on your teeth. They’re a popular choice for teenagers and adult patients who want a more discreet system for correcting their smiles.
What conditions do braces fix?
Braces can correct a variety of oral conditions, including:
- Crooked or overcrowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
- Edge to edge bite
- Covered bite
Many people also get braces as a cosmetic treatment to improve their smile by straightening generally uneven teeth.
Why should I get braces?
Straightening improperly aligned teeth can have a number of benefits for your oral health, including:
- Easier to clean teeth, thereby reducing your risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease
- More evenly distributed force when you bite down, reducing the wear and tear on your teeth
- Improved ability to speak properly
Braces also improve the appearance of your smile, boosting self-confidence and increasing self-esteem.
To learn more about how braces can improve your smile, call Manhasset Dental Arts today or book a visit online.