Caulfeild Dental Centre
Traditional Orthodontics
Traditional orthodontics
Traditional orthodontics refers to the well-established methods of straightening the teeth and jaw. It focuses most specifically on the use of dental braces.
How Do Braces Work?
Braces move the teeth using wires that are connected to each tooth. When the wire is pulled tight, it slowly puts pressure on the teeth. This pressure creates a very slow and continuous movement.
Types of Braces
Although many braces are made with metal brackets and wire fitted around the outside of the teeth, braces can also be made from other dental materials and fitted differently in the mouth. The type of braces your doctor recommends will be based on your treatment plan, goals, cosmetic concerns, and the cost of the treatment.
Metal and Wire Braces
When you think about braces, what comes to mind is most likely traditional metal braces. These have three main components: Metal brackets adhered to the teeth, arch wire connecting the brackets, and, in some cases, small rubber bands that wrap around the brackets to add pressure to the braces. Over time, metal braces have become smaller and less conspicuous.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made from a composite material that can be created with various levels of transparency. This means that they can look “tooth-coloured,” blending in with the teeth and making the braces less noticeable and less prominent in the mouth.
Am I a candidate for braces?
There are several factors that may determine whether you are a candidate for braces. If you have other oral conditions, such as tooth decay or gum disease, your doctor may recommend a different solution in your treatment plan. The severity of your malocclusion (or misalignment) will also be a determining factor.
The teeth are easier to shift during their development stages, which is why many traditional orthodontic patients are children. However, teens and adults can also be good candidates for braces.
How long do I have to wear them?
Treatments plans for individuals often determine the length of the treatment timeline. Many patients have to wear braces for 1-3 years, after which, they may be given a device called a retainer to keep the teeth in their new positions. Your doctor will likely recommend that you wear your retainer day and night for a specific period of time, and after that time period, only at night.
Is getting braces painful?
Braces typically become comfortable for patients once they have time to adjust to the feeling of the braces in their mouth and the pressure. However, there may be some pain or discomfort after the initial appointment when the braces are applied or at follow-up appointments to have them tightened. If this occurs, over the counter pain relievers are usually recommended to ease the pain.
Retainers
A retainer is an oral device that is often used as the last stage of orthodontic treatment. No two retainers are made exactly the same. Each one must be highly customized to perfectly preserve the new positions of the teeth after a patient’s braces are removed. Our dentists can help fit children, teens, and adults alike with comfortable and durable retainers and provide you with detailed care instructions to ensure you get a longer lifespan from your retainer.
Book an Appointment for Traditional Orthodontics in West Vancouver
At Caulfeild Dental, we are backed by a team of qualified experts who are committed to your overall oral health. Our personalized services work with you to maintain a healthy smile. We make this possible by catering our services to your specific dental needs and educating you on good oral health.
If your smile requires dental treatment, our latest technology will give you precise results that check off your boxes. Investing in the most up-to-date equipment leaves little chance for error and faster results than any other method. We can provide accurate results and place you on a customized plan to get you better results in a fraction of the time without sacrificing quality.
You can easily find Caulfeild Dental at 5311 Headland Drive in West Vancouver. Located in Caulfeild Village Shopping Centre, we are just off Westport Road.
General Inquiries
Looking for more information? Feel free to contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
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