An orthodontist is a specialist in dentistry that studies the treatment of improper bites. Orthodontists in Columbus, Ohio use many tools to align teeth. Orthodontics methods to align bites consist of using braces, by using small appliances, brackets, bands, wires, elastics, or Invisalign trays is rearrange and move teeth to a position that will achieve the results that you tell us you want to achieve.
As an orthodontist serving Columbus, Ohio we provide many forms of braces.
- Regular braces with the wires and brackets
- Invisalign a new form of clear trays
- Expanders and other small appliances
Traditional Braces
Regular braces are what many of us are used to when we think of going to an orthodontist, and probably had as a child. Once upon a time they had a band on each tooth and the wires and this is how the term train tracks developed. Nowadays Columbus, Ohio orthodontists don’t use that many bands and most of the little brackets are bonded on to the teeth. The treatment usually progresses through six months to several years. An orthodontist will first place the brackets, and then there will be some wire changes, possible rubber bands and then removal and ending with retainers. The little brackets come in silver, gold, white and clear, and the little donuts that hold the wires in come in a huge variety of colors. Mix and match to your hearts content.
Invisalign
Invisalign is the newest style of braces that orthodontist in Columbus, Ohio have as a tool, and it uses a set of clear plastic trays to slowly move teeth into a better, prettier, more functional alignment. The trays are pretty easy to wear, are almost undetectable, and do not interfere with your talking. These trays are worn all the time, except when you eat. Each tray set is worn for one to two weeks, and then the next set is inserted. As you progress through the trays the teeth slowly move into the final desired location. This can take anywhere from 6 months to several years. The cost for this is similar to regular braces.
Expanders
Expanders and other appliances are used by orthodontists for several situations. They are frequently used in children, anywhere from age three and up. The most common ages however are 6, 7, and 8 years old. At these ages these appliances are part of a two phase treatment. Their purpose is for the orthodontist to correct underlying problems such as the jaws are too narrow, or the top and bottom jaw don’t line up properly. By correcting these problems early, the time needed for full braces is reduced or even eliminated. In adults they are more frequently used to do things that the Invisalign trays can not accomplish. Such as make your mouth wider to fit all those teeth in and get them to look the way you would like them to look.
Teeth in the right places are easier to keep clean, look better, and function in the way that they are made to.
If this sounds like something you would like to explore further, either for yourself or your child, please call us for an orthodontist in Columbus, Ohio. We would love for you to come in and meet us to discuss your goals, and see how we can help you.
ClearConnect
Learn more about ClearConnect below. The clear and simple way to straighten your teeth without braces.