A main component used in our orthodontic treatment here at Smiles Orthodontics is dental braces. Braces are used to correct not only crooked teeth, but also flaws of the jaw such as under bites, overbites cross bites and open bites.

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Orthodontic treatment using dental braces has come a long way. As opposed to being restricted to the shiny metal look that was common in past decades, these days there various different options for anyone requiring dental braces. Here at Smiles Orthodontics we work closely with each of our patients to determine which type of braces not only would correct their problems, but also provide the best option when it comes to aesthetics.

There are basically two options for braces: metal and ceramic. For certain patients, a clear non-bracket option available is Invisalign (clear aligners). The doctor will inform you at the initial exam if you are a candidate for this last type of treatment.

METAL BRACES

These are the metal brackets that most people picture when they hear the word “braces.” However, modern brackets are smaller and less noticeable than the notorious “metal-mouth” that many adults remember.

In recent years, there has been substantial technological advance used in creating a better type of bracket known as “self-ligating brackets.” We use SL In-Ovation R type (GAC) brackets here at Smiles Orthodontics.

These brackets do not need to be “tied in” because each of them has a door/lock that will hold onto the wire. Patients will not need to have color ties around their brackets but if wanted they can still be placed on. These brackets also facilitate changing of the wires and that makes your office visit shorter!

CERAMIC BRACES

Many people, adults especially, prefer ceramic braces over metal braces because they blend in with your teeth and are much less noticeable. Many adults want to correct and straighten their teeth, but don’t want their braces to be the first thing people see when they meet them. The transparency of clear or ceramic braces works great at reducing their visibility. Braces El Paso

For ceramic brackets, we use the same type of self-ligating concept: In-Ovation C type brackets from GAC. They are highly aesthetic and do not chip as easy as other plastic/ceramic conventional brackets.

INVISIBLE ALIGNERS (INVISALIGN)

Clear aligners are another way to align teeth. For treatment with clear aligners, we use Invisalign as we believe it is the best aligner system in the market. Invisalign consists of a series of custom-made clear plastic aligners. The aligners are removable and are replaced every 2 weeks. They are almost invisible, and have many advantages for the right candidate such as:

• the ability to eat whatever foods you enjoy
• the ability to remove the device if and when you want
• allow you to brush and floss your teeth normally

Invisalign is a great alternative to conventional treatment if you are the right candidate. This type of treatment can be used effectively in teens and adults who qualify for it. It is not indicated, however, for children or phase I treatment.