Orthodontics is the name given to treatment that is designed specifically to treat irregularities in the teeth and jaws. This primarily refers to malocclusion, a condition in which the teeth are not correctly positioned when the mouth has closed that results in an improper bite. Orthodontics can also carry out work that:

• Closes wide gaps between the teeth

• Aligns the tips of the teeth

• Straightens teeth that are crooked

• Prevents long-term excessive wear on the teeth caused by a malocclusion

• Improves speech and/or chewing ability

• Aids the long-term health of teeth and gums

There are several options available when it comes to orthodontic treatment. These are as follows.

Conventional Orthodontic Braces

Conventional orthodontic braces have long been the go-to solution for issues with teeth that are crooked, twisted, overlapping or gapped. They can also be successfully used to address problems with a patient’s bite.

Fortunately, the design of orthodontic braces has improved considerably over the years, with many adolescents now viewing them almost as fashion statements thanks to the array of options that they have. These can include choosing the color of elements such as the bands and even having colored stones placed into the attachment used on traditional ‘train track’ style braces. It is also possible to have braces with clear or ceramic brackets, making them far more discreet.

While most types of braces are placed on the outside of teeth, lingual braces have their brackets and wires placed on the inside of the teeth, making them far more discreet.

Invisalign®

Invisalign® is a highly popular alternative to conventional braces that offers much greater discretion for patients. This is because Invisalign® uses a series of clear aligners that are worn over the top of teeth to gradually move them into the correct position. Rather than going in to see your dentist for an adjustment to your brace, with Invisalign® you simply move on to the next aligner in the series. Each must be worn in order for at least 22 hours per day, only being removed for eating and cleaning.

Invisalign® aligners are custom designed specifically for your teeth using cutting edge mapping technology. This takes the current position of your teeth and tracks the precise movements that they will need to make to fall into alignment.

ClearCorrect®

ClearCorrect® is another clear aligner system that can be used to address alignment issues with your teeth. Like Invisalign®, your treatment is mapped out in advance, and it is possible to view a computerized representation of how your smile will look at the end of your treatment.

ClearCorrect® treatment involves four distinct phases of aligner therapy, each requiring a new set of custom-designed aligners that are worn for consistently for three weeks, only being removed for eating, drinking and cleaning. There is a short break between each phase of treatment. For this reason, treatment time can vary between one and two years depending on the extend of your dental misalignment. ClearCorrect® is generally found to be slightly more affordable than Invisalign®.

If you are interested in discovering more about any of the orthodontic solutions that we can offer, or if you would like to arrange an appointment to discuss your candidacy, please do not hesitate to make an appointment at our offices in Matteson, IL.