Checkout Our Selection of Orthodontic Options for Beautiful Straight Teeth in Red Deer, Alberta
All services provided by General Dentists.
For most people, achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is the reason for choosing to receive orthodontic care. If you’re self-conscious about your smile orthodontic treatment can help.
Sometimes these treatment services are referred to an orthodontic specialist and we will be happy to assist you in this.
How orthodontic treatment works
Orthodontic appliances are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to the proper position.
Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can now choose from brackets that are clear or metallic, and in some cases, pick the color of your appliance. Wires are far less noticeable, and Invisalign® for a wireless option is available. Today, any age is a great age to wear braces!
Duration of treatment
Depending on several factors, including age, treatment method, and how minor or severe your case is, treatment time varies and can last between one and three years. A big factor to a successful treatment is you, the patient! The more involved and diligent you are, the quicker and more efficient your treatment will be. For children, receiving interceptive, or early treatment, can also ensure a quicker treatment time later on in life.
Before beginning your orthodontic care, your doctor will discuss all your options and provide an estimate for how long your full treatment may take. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about orthodontics and the treatments we provide.
Types of braces
Traditional metal braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type, and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth by 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.
Self-ligating braces
Self-ligating braces are made from the same materials as traditional braces; however, self-ligating braces do not require the use of elastics, which means fewer appointments and less friction on the tooth. Self-ligating braces come with traditional metal, ceramic, or clear brackets. They are the same size as metal braces, but they use a specialized clip in place of elastics to help the archwire guide teeth into place. The clip helps reduce the amount of pressure placed on the tooth and requires fewer adjustments because there are no elastics to replace.
Clear aligners
Clear aligners are a series of hard to see, removable, and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces. Not only are the aligners hard to see, they are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, this helps to make brushing and flossing less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.
