All About Braces
O·M·I Orthodontics offers braces to a variety of ages. It is entirely normal for youth, teenagers, and adults to have braces to straighten their teeth. Whether you are dealing with significant misalignment issues or small ones, we are here to help you improve your smile and increase your confidence. If you are interested in braces, please come into our office for a complimentary consultation today! We are conveniently located in three different areas of Indiana and will gladly help you reach your smile’s potential.
Orthodontics for Children
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that it’s best for the orthodontist to see children by age 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required, and it is the best time for that patient to be treated. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time, and crossbites, crowding, over/underbites, and other problems can be evaluated. When treatment begins early, the orthodontist can direct the growth of the jaw while guiding incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment and improve overall outcomes.
Orthodontics for Adults
Orthodontics for adults is extremely common. Everyone deserves a perfect smile, no matter your age. In fact, one of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21. Working with adults can be more challenging, as their mouth and jaw have stopped growing and developing. However, this should not stop you from getting braces. Dr. Johnson and Dr. Dager have the highest education and training available. They know how to treat each individual and help them create the desired individualized smile.
Different Types of Braces
Here at O·M·I, we offer four treatment options to align teeth: traditional braces, ceramic braces, clear aligners, and lingual braces. Each type has a specific purpose and depending on your situation, we’ll help determine what type of treatment will work best for you. We have provided a separate page that explains each type of treatment in greater detail and lists the benefits of each. We invite you to read through that page, especially if you are interested in braces. Give us a call with any remaining questions that you may have!
Types of Braces Appliances
While braces typically only include brackets and wires that work together to create a straighter smile, sometimes there are situations where different braces appliances are needed to help with the process. Below we have listed some of the most common devices to straighten teeth and correct other oral issues.
- Herbst Appliance: This is an appliance primarily used with growing children. It works to move the lower jaw forward and upper molars backward, correcting an overbite.
- Palatal Expander: An expander expands (or widens) your upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on your upper molars. When you achieve the desired expansion, you will wear the appliance for several months to solidify the expansion and to prevent regression.
- Retainers: Retainers are used to prevent relapse of your teeth after your treatment. They will keep your teeth in a straight position. Most retainers eventually only need to be worn at night. Look up our page about retainers to learn more about how they can benefit you.
- Elastics: Elastic bands can be used for several reasons. They work to move your jaw and teeth into a new position, keeping things tight and secure. There are different sizes of bands and ways they can be placed. You need to wear them exactly as instructed.
- Separators: Separators are meant to move your teeth to make space. Separators are often used when overcrowding is an issue. The separators will move your teeth slightly apart, and then we can more easily place appliances to help align your teeth.
If you are interested in a better smile and more confidence, contact us at O·M·I Orthodontics today! We are so excited to help you in any way that we can. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out! We are more than willing to accommodate any specific needs that you may have.
We look forward to seeing you at one of our three Indiana orthodontic offices.