Orthodontic braces

What are Orthodontic Braces?

• Definition: Fixed orthodontic appliances used to straighten teeth and correct jaw alignment issues (malocclusion).
• Purpose: To improve aesthetics, function (biting, chewing, speaking), and long-term oral health.

How Do Braces Work?

• Gentle, constant pressure applied to teeth over time.
• Components:
  • Brackets: Small attachments bonded to each tooth.
  • Archwires: Wires that connect the brackets and apply force.
  • Ligatures (O-rings): Small elastic bands that hold the archwire in the brackets (can be metal or colored).
  • Bands: Metal rings cemented around molars for anchorage in some cases.
• Mechanism of tooth movement: Bone remodeling in response to pressure.

Lingual Orthodontics: The Invisible Path to a Straighter Smile

At Stavya Dental Hospital, we are proud to offer lingual orthodontics, a sophisticated and aesthetically advanced treatment option for patients seeking to correct their smiles discreetly. Lingual braces represent a revolutionary approach to orthodontics, providing the effectiveness of traditional braces with the unparalleled cosmetic benefit of being completely hidden from view.

How Lingual Braces Work :

Lingual braces utilize the same fundamental principles as labial (traditional) braces – applying gentle, consistent pressure to guide teeth into their desired positions. However, the key difference lies in their placement. Lingual brackets and wires are custom-fabricated and bonded to the lingual (tongue-facing) surfaces of your teeth.

Clear Aligners

The Modern Approach to Orthodontic Treatment at Stavya Dental Hospital, Ahmedabad

At Stavya Dental Hospital in Ahmedabad, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the most advanced and aesthetically pleasing orthodontic solutions. Clear aligners represent a cutting-edge alternative to traditional braces, offering a discreet, comfortable, and effective way to achieve a straighter, healthier smile.

Understanding Clear Aligner Technology :

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign®, utilize a series of custom-designed, transparent plastic trays to gently shift your teeth into their desired positions. These aligners are crafted based on precise digital scans or impressions of your teeth and a comprehensive treatment plan developed by our experienced orthodontists.

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Types of Braces

What are my options?

Today's orthodontics offer more kinds of braces than ever before. Check out your options:

Metal Braces (Traditional Braces)

Metal braces, often the first image that comes to mind when thinking of orthodontics, consist of metal brackets and wires. While the classic "metal-mouth" look of the past may be what some adults remember, modern metal brackets are significantly smaller and less conspicuous. Furthermore, advancements like heat-activated archwires utilize body heat to gently guide teeth into alignment, potentially making the treatment process faster and more comfortable than before. Metal braces are typically the most affordable orthodontic option and offer the added benefit of customizable colored bands, allowing children and teens to personalize their look.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces share the same size and shape as traditional metal braces but offer a more discreet aesthetic. Instead of metal brackets, they utilize tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. To further enhance their inconspicuous appearance, some ceramic brace systems also incorporate tooth-colored wires. This makes them a significantly less noticeable option compared to metal braces. Additionally, ceramic braces are known for their effectiveness in moving teeth, often working considerably faster than clear plastic aligners.

Low Friction Braces (Self-Ligating Braces)

Low friction braces, also known as self-ligating braces, represent an advancement in orthodontic technology. Unlike traditional braces that use elastic or rubber ties to hold the archwire in place, self-ligating braces feature a built-in mechanism to secure the wire. This design significantly reduces friction, allowing teeth to move more efficiently and often with greater comfort. For individuals who prefer a less colorful aesthetic, self-ligating braces are an excellent option as they eliminate the need for colored ties. Furthermore, the reduced friction can contribute to a potentially faster overall treatment time. These braces are available in both clear (ceramic) and stainless steel variations, offering both functional and aesthetic choices.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces function on the same principles as traditional metal braces, but with a significant difference in placement. Instead of being bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth, the brackets and wires are attached to the inside (tongue-side) of the teeth. This unique placement makes lingual braces completely invisible from the outside, offering a highly discreet orthodontic treatment option.

Invisalign

Invisalign treatment involves a series of typically 18 to 30 custom-designed, clear plastic aligners that resemble mouthguards. These aligners are virtually invisible and offer the significant advantage of being removable. Patients wear each set of aligners for approximately two weeks before progressing to the next set in the series. This removability allows for greater flexibility, enabling patients to eat and drink any foods they desire without the restrictions associated with traditional braces.

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The Treatment Process:

Consultation and Examination: Initial assessment, including X-rays, impressions, and photographs.

Treatment Planning: Developing a customized plan based on the patient's needs.

Placement of Braces: Bonding brackets to teeth and attaching archwires.

Regular Adjustment Appointments: Typically every 4-8 weeks to adjust the wires and monitor progress.

Debonding: Removal of braces at the end of treatment.

Retention: Wearing retainers (fixed or removable) to maintain the new tooth alignment.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment with Braces:

• Improved aesthetics and smile.
• Correction of bite problems (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite).
• Easier cleaning of teeth, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Improved chewing and speech.
• Reduced risk of tooth wear and jaw joint problems.
• Increased self-confidence.