Braces

Braces are a time tested, non-invasive treatment to straighten crooked, misaligned, crowded, or unevenly spaced teeth. Traditional braces are made of metal brackets and wires. The bracket gets placed on the teeth and a wire goes between the brackets. Then the wire is rubber-banded, forcing the teeth to move to a new position.

In the first week or two, traditional braces cause considerable amounts of discomfort to the patient. But it also depends on the tolerance levels of each patient. The discomfort may return each time a new wire is placed by the dentist.

However, braces are necessary from aesthetic as well as functional perspectives. Misaligned, uneven or crooked teeth appear awkward and spoil the symmetrical beauty of the mouth. People with such conditions tend to hide their smile and laughter in public, and become very conscious of their condition. Braces can correct that situation and bring back the natural smile and improve the person’s quality of life.

From a functional viewpoint, misaligned teeth do not fit together properly, and wear and tear occurs faster. Such teeth will tend to chip and break easily because the unnatural grinding forces will weaken the teeth. Crowded teeth cannot be cleaned properly with brushing and flossing. This increases the chances of dental decay and gum disease in the long run. Looking at such prospects, braces are a useful solution even from a functional perspective.

Many people are under the impression that braces are useful only when a child is young. However, Dr. Alison Schwartz advises that it is a myth that braces can be effective only for young children. As a recognized expert in adult orthodontics, Dr. Schwartz has treated many adult patients with braces and achieved desirable results in every case.

Dr. Schwartz recommends Invisalign invisible braces for adults because they do not compromise the facial aesthetics of the patient while the treatment is in progress. Invisalign also reduces the discomfort levels for patients, and are removable when the patients want to eat, drink or clean their teeth.