Types of Braces
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces have been the standard for years. Even today, they are the type of braces most commonly used, but many advancements have made them more comfortable than ever. Metal braces also offer the fun option of adding colored elastics to create your own unique look.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are most often chosen by adults and older teens, because they are less visible than traditional braces. The clear materials they are constructed from offer cosmetic appeal, but they do require more care. Oral hygiene is extremely important to protect these more brittle braces. Because of their delicate nature, ceramic braces are most often only used on the upper front teeth.
“Invisible” Braces
Akridge offers Invisalign® appliances, which straighten your teeth using a series of removable aligners. They are comfortable, with no metal rubbing in your mouth and no one will even know you are wearing them, because they are invisible! The removability option allows you to eat whatever you desire and there are no complications with brushing and flossing.
Learn more about Invisalign® at www.invisalign.com
Types of Appliances
Retainers
Retainers hold your teeth in their corrected position after they have been straightened. Our office uses a removable device. When you are using a removable retainer, it is especially important to use it according to the instructions we have given you, so that you don’t lose all of the progress of your treatment.
Palatal Expander
Palatal expanders widen your upper jaw by applying gentle pressure on your top molars. Our team will show you how to use the expander and create a plan for how often to make adjustments. Once expansion is complete, you will continue to wear your expander for a few months to prevent the treatment from reversing.
Headgear
Headgear is used for patients with underbites and overbites. The appliance hinders further problem growth by gently pulling on your teeth.
Elastics (Rubber Bands)
Elastics are used to improve how your teeth fit inside your mouth. For best results, always follow your Orthodontist’s instructions on how to wear your elastics.
Separators or Spacers
Separators look like little rubber doughnuts and are placed in between your teeth to create space. They make way so that orthodontic bands can be placed on your teeth at a later time. Avoid sticky food and flossing while you have separators in your teeth.
