Dental braces and retainers are used to help to straighten crooked teeth and correct a misaligned bite in patients. In some cases, a removable retainer will be all that's necessary; in severe cases, surgery may be recommended. Braces, which consist of bands, wires, and other fixed or removable corrective appliances, work by applying continuous pressure over a period of time to slowly move teeth in a specific direction.

Newer mini-braces, which are much smaller than traditional braces, are an option for some. Braces usually remain in place for 1-3 years, followed by the use of a retainer.

Types of Braces

1. Regular Metal Braces

2. Metal Mini Braces

3. Ceramic Braces

4. Invisalign

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is the invisible way to straighten teeth without braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, without metal or wires.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired position from which a series of custom-made, clear "aligners" are produced. Each "aligner" moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then is replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

What are the primary benefits of Invisalign.?

• Invisalign is clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
• Invisalign is removable. Unlike braces, you can eat and drink what you want during treatment. You can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
• Invisalign is comfortable. There are no metal brackets or wires as with braces to cause mouth irritation, and no metal or wires means you spend less time in the doctor's chair getting adjustments.
• Invisalign allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

What are aligners made of?

Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.

What do aligners look like?

Aligners are clear and look similar to tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as "contact lenses for teeth."

Is this a new way to straighten teeth?

For years, orthodontists and dentists have used removable appliances for limited treatment. Today, with the application of computer technology and custom manufacturing, Invisalign treats a broader range of cases with greater precision.

How does Invisalign effectively move teeth?

Like brackets and arch wires are to braces, Invisalign aligners move teeth through appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. The principal difference is that Invisalign not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. At each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.

What is Invisalign Express?

Invisalign Express is an orthodontic treatment designed to correct mild orthodontic problems such as minor crowding and spacing. Since it's designed for mild problems only, treatment time is generally less than six months but still varies from case to case.