Types of Braces in Calgary

Braces Near You

Whether you’re a kid, teenager, or adult it’s never too late to obtain the smile that you’ve always wanted. Receiving orthodontic work is a wonderful, reliable way to do this. And, to add the cherry on top, there are several different options available so whatever your dental situation is, there is a solution.

Progressions are constantly happening within the field of dentistry and, because of this, accessing the right form of care has never been easier. Here at Symmetry Orthodontics, we’re here to guide you on this journey. Give us a call today to learn more.

braces in calgary

The Purpose of Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that exclusively focuses on straightening teeth that are unaligned and repairing problems with your bite, which usually means improving the functionality of your jaw. Since general dentists aren’t qualified to provide braces to patients, when you’re looking to undergo this type of treatment, they’ll refer you to a specialist.

Before receiving braces in any form, you’ll need to schedule and attend a consultation. This session is a one-on-one visit with your orthodontist near you, during which they’ll evaluate the state of your teeth and gums and takes X-rays to identify the extent of changes that need to happen. This will allow them to recommend the best course of action for you moving forward.

Understanding Your Options

There are four main types of braces near you. Each one is described in further detail below:

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces utilize stainless steel brackets and archwires and sometimes small elastics to straighten your teeth. Typically, when someone says the word ‘braces’, this is what will most likely pop into people’s minds does getting braces hurt? Not only is it one of the most common forms of treatment, but it is very reliable and boosts a very high success rate. Despite what you may think or hear, metal braces aren’t anywhere near as bulky as they used to be; rather, they’re much smaller and more comfortable in your mouth.

Clear Braces

Clear braces are one treatment that’s been becoming more common, mainly because it’s less noticeable. Ceramic is used to achieve this because it easily blends in with your smile. Other than that, they function the same way as metal braces do: exert a continually gentle pressure on your teeth over time to get them to move.

Lingual Braces

Instead of your braces being placed on the outside of your teeth where everyone can see, lingual braces are installed behind your teeth. This is another good choice to keep in mind if you’re feeling self-conscious and don’t want to draw attention to the fact that you’re receiving orthodontic care. As a result, they’re sometimes called: “incognito braces”.

Clear Aligner Therapy

As the name “clearly’ indicates, clear aligner therapy uses plastic trays to straighten your smile. The most well-known form of clear aligner therapy is Invisalign. Even though this option is quite popular amongst teens especially, anyone can receive this form of care. Similar to traditional braces, your trays put pressure on your smile, encouraging gradual bone movement. One major perk is that your trays are removable.

Receiving orthodontic work can significantly benefit your oral health and your self-esteem. You’ll be able to get back to eating your favorite meals, laughing with your friends and family, and leaving that lasting impression when you come to work.

At Symmetry Orthodontics Calgary, we look forward to working with you and your family to improve your dental health. Call, come in, or head over to our website to schedule an appointment to get started today!

FAQs

Dental braces, which are typically just referred to as braces, are a special type of device that orthodontists provide to patients to remedy crooked smiles and jaws. They work by exerting firm pressure on the teeth which triggers bone movement and regeneration. Over time, this leads to your teeth assuming a much straighter, healthier position. Learn about signs that indicate you might need braces.

A few different forms of braces are available to you such as:

  • Traditional– These make use of a metal framework of brackets, arch wires, and elastics.
  • Lingual– These are identical to traditional braces except they’re fastened onto the underside of your smile.
  • Ceramic– Again, they’re nearly identical to traditional braces but instead of metal, ceramic is used, creating a more subtle look.
  • Clear aligners– Customized trays designed from dental plastic are placed over your teeth and encourage them to move.

Patients who are dealing with bite problems (ex: an underbite, cross bite, or overbite) may be good candidates for braces. Those who have good oral health are also eligible. Before you can receive any form of treatment, your dentist will have you come in for an examination so they can fully understand your situation.

Though this is no perfect age to get braces since everyone’s oral health situation is unique, not people receive this treatment sometime between the ages of 14 and 20. All your adult teeth will have come in and you’ll be old enough to have maintained a good dental hygiene routine.

Acquiring braces or wearing them in daily life doesn’t hurt but you can experience a bit of discomfort as you adjust to them. Take Advil or Tylenol to help you manage the aches and be sure to follow any other guidelines your orthodontist provides you.

During the first few days of your treatment, stick to eating soft things like yogurt, oatmeal, and mashed potatoes. Once your mouth gets used to the braces, you’ll gradually be able to get back to eating your regular meals and snacks; just be patient.