Many people who need orthodontic treatment will put it off or worry that they just can’t make it work right now. If you fall into that category, then we have great news for you: you’ve got more than just one choice!
That’s right. The world of braces is wider and more varied than ever before, and when you visit our practice, we will discuss which option is right for you. We will show you in person all the different technology that makes orthodontics fun and exciting today, as compared to ten years ago.
Traditional Braces (Metal)
This option is probably what you’re thinking of when you hear the word braces. It’s time-tested and highly effective. Metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.
Every few weeks, your orthodontist will evaluate and adjust the wires so that they efficiently lead to a straightened and properly aligned smile.
Clear Braces
These braces work in almost the exact same way that traditional braces do. The difference? They’re practically invisible!
Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns.
Invisalign® & 3M Clear Aligners
Invisalign® & 3M Clear Aligners treatment straightens your teeth without wires and brackets by using a series of clear, customized removable appliances called aligners.
They are virtually undetectable, which means hardly anyone knows that you’re straightening your teeth. Every few weeks, you’ll trade the old one out for the next in the series, until your teeth are where they’re supposed to be.
What’s the major advantage of this method? Invisalign® & 3M Clear Aligners are completely removable when necessary. Take the trays out for eating, playing sports, or even giving a speech. Put them right back in when you’re done, with no hassle or inconvenience.
When to See an Orthodontist
Knowing when to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one can be confusing. How do you know when something seemingly inconvenient becomes a problem to your oral and emotional health?
At our practice, we want to give you the tools and knowledge necessary to understand when to call and schedule an appointment regarding your oral health. There are a number of concerns that warrant orthodontic advice. Here are a few:
- The alignment of your teeth.
- Concerns about the quality of your bite.
- Protruding, crowded, or misplaced teeth.
- Mouth breathing.
- Clenching teeth.
- Tooth grinding.
- Noise when moving your jaw.
- Unintentionally biting cheek or lip.
- Facial imbalance.
While it can seem frightening and even scary to seek orthodontic care, our goal is to put you at ease and give you honest and upfront answers to the questions you may have. Dr. McSurdy has competently treated all of the above concerns.
Check out our Gallery of Smiles to see stunning before and after photos from our satisfied current and past patients.
Orthodontics for Children
Children’s mouths are continually growing and changing, making them excellent candidates for orthodontic treatment. When dental issues are caught in early life, the correction becomes more effective and easier to achieve.
That being said, there is a certain amount of normal variation that can occur in the mouths of children. Dr. McSurdy has treated countless children and is well-trained to spot the difference between normal growth and greater concerns to address.
Orthodontics for Adults
For adults, orthodontic treatment is largely an aesthetic concern. If you have gone through life covering your mouth or trying to hide your teeth, you may want to consider orthodontic treatment. With state-of-the-art equipment and devices, orthodontic treatment can be done almost invisibly and with little disruption to your busy life.
Call Us Today at 610-489-6032
No two mouths are exactly alike, so it stands to reason that no two orthodontic treatments should be exactly the same either. To learn more about your options, give us a call today.