Germantown Braces and Invisalign
Germantown Braces and Invisalign: Braces
Traditional braces are one of the most efficient orthodontic tools we have, and have a well-established history of successfully straightening smiles. They are usually made up of metal or ceramic brackets that are attached to the teeth, then tied together by wires and tiny rubber bands or elastics. Through regular adjustments with Dr. Fagala, the brackets, wires, and bands work together to apply gentle pressure that will gradually move the teeth into the desired positions.
Today’s braces are more comfortable and subtle than ever before. Our Saddle Creek Orthodontics patients can also have fun customizing their braces using the wide variety of colored brackets and bands we have available. For those who prefer a more discreet look, we also offer clear or tooth-colored brackets.
Germantown braces are excellent at correcting complex tooth issues, and can work faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth than other treatments might. This may potentially shorten the overall treatment time. Because they don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments might, Germantown braces are a cost-effective orthodontic option. The strength, durability, and affordability of traditional braces are what keep them the top treatment for orthodontic patients, year after year.
When undergoing treatment with Germantown braces, we will schedule patients for follow-up visits at regular intervals, approximately every 6-10 weeks. During these adjustment appointments, Dr. Fagala will change the bands that are attached to the brackets. The wire may be replaced at this time as well. These appointments are generally just a short visit, so we can get patients back to work, home, or school as quickly as possible. There may sometimes be some slight soreness after each adjustment, but it should only be temporary. Follow-up visits are a crucial part of every treatment plan, and help ensure the best results in the least amount of time.
Metal braces start working once they are applied to the teeth. Patients will often be able to see some signs of progress in a relatively short period of time because of this. Although it may not seem like much, sometimes even a slight improvement can be a huge encouragement!
Germantown Braces and Invisalign: Invisalign
Germantown Invisalign aligners are not a fixed orthodontic appliance like braces. Instead, the system uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move the teeth into alignment. In terms of orthodontics, Invisalign is a relatively new method of treatment, but it’s proven to be incredibly popular with both patients and orthodontists.
Invisalign aligners are custom-made of a comfortable plastic material and fit snugly over the patient’s teeth. The clear, smooth material is easy on the mouth, and doesn’t tend to irritate the gums or cheeks the way brackets and wires sometimes can. These nearly invisible trays will generally be switched out every 1-2 weeks for the next in the series to keep teeth moving in the direction we want them to, and should be worn 20-22 hours per day throughout treatment. The Invisalign system can only work if the recommended guidelines are followed exactly! If patients neglect to wear the aligners as directed by Dr. Fagala, it can impede the results and also add time to the orthodontic process.
Although there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer for how long a patient will need to wear Germantown Invisalign aligners, the average tends to be somewhere around 12-24 months. This can vary widely from case to case, however, since every patient responds to treatment in their own way.
Germantown Invisalign aligners are extremely easy to maintain. They’re designed to be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water, so patients never need to worry about food getting stuck in between the brackets and wires. They should also be removed before brushing and flossing, making dental hygiene a simple process. While traditional braces come with a number of food restrictions, patients can eat everything they normally would with Invisalign, as long as they are careful to brush after every meal and floss nightly.
Germantown Invisalign patients will typically have follow-up visits about once every 8 weeks or so. Patients are responsible for changing out their aligners at the interval recommended by Dr. Fagala. Changing aligners frequently allows us to keep up with a patient’s shifting teeth as they straighten out. Invisalign is at its most efficient when correcting many of the most common orthodontic issues. For some complex cases, Invisalign may not be a viable option.
Germantown Braces and Invisalign: finding the right treatment for your smile
Dr. Fagala and the Saddle Creek Orthodontics team have years of experience in customizing treatment plans for each individual patient. When you visit our office for a complimentary consultation, we will take into account your particular orthodontic needs, as well as your specific tooth shape, the movement of your lips, and the shape of your face. This results in a beautifully aligned smile that’s just right for your face, whether we use Germantown braces or Invisalign to create it!