Here at Bennett Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer our patients a variety of effective treatment options to patients of all ages in Mobile and the surrounding communities! Dr. Bennett and his skilled team are dedicated to creating treatment plans designed specifically for each individual’s unique smile. We utilize state of the art techniques and innovative technology to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including:
- crowded teeth
- gaps between teeth
- protruding teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- impacted teeth
We correct these common orthodontic problems using a variety of treatments, including traditional metal braces. As the most common type of orthodontic treatment, braces have undergone a major transformation over the years. Today’s braces are smaller and more esthetically pleasing, while moving teeth more efficiently, giving you a more positive orthodontic experience, from start to finish!
Once you make the choice to pursue braces treatment to straighten your smile and improve your oral health, your next step is to explore your options. At your initial consultation with Dr. Bennett, you’ll undergo an orthodontic examination that will give him the information necessary to determine what treatment option will be the best fit for your smile and your lifestyle.
Let’s take a closer look at the types of braces we offer and how they differ, and how they can give you a confident smile you’ll love!
A note about traditional braces
Traditional braces are incredibly efficient at correcting complex tooth issues, closing gaps and aligning teeth quickly, leading to shorter treatment times. Every case is different and everyone responds to treatment differently, so there is no “one size fits all” answer as to how long treatment will take. Generally speaking, the average is anywhere from 12-36 months. Oftentimes, you’ll begin to see improvements early on, which can be very encouraging!
There can be a slight learning curve when you first start your braces treatment, but it gets easier over time! While a good dental hygiene routine is good for everyone, it’s essential in the progress of your orthodontic treatment. There are some great tools designed to make cleaning your braces easier, including waterpiks which help rinse away anything caught in those hard to reach areas, and ortho picks to help make flossing easier. As always, brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes every time, and floss every night before bed.
During your braces treatment, you’ll need to avoid any sticky or crunchy foods, in order to keep them safe. These types of food can cause damage to your brackets and wires, which could require additional office visits and lengthen your treatment time. We know this can be frustrating, but just remember: this won’t last forever and it’ll all be worth it when your braces are removed and you see your new, beautiful smile!
As a patient wearing braces, you can expect to come into the office every 6-8 weeks or so throughout your treatment. At these appointments, Dr. Bennett will change the bands that are attached to the brackets, and may replace the wire, if he sees that it’s necessary. These check-ups are usually pretty quick, so you can return to work or school on time. Though there may be some slight soreness after each adjustment, it should be temporary. These visits are an essential part of the treatment process, so do your best not to miss them!
Metal braces
Metal braces are one of the most recognizable symbols of orthodontics, and they happen to be the most common type of treatment.
Today’s metal braces have come a long way and are much more comfortable and light than previous models. They’re also customizable, thanks to a variety of fun colored bands, so you can show off your personality with your braces treatment. These braces deliver excellent, long-lasting results and are especially useful in more severe or complex cases.
Metal braces tend to be a great, affordable option for many patients, since they don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that some newer treatments do. The overall strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness of traditional braces keep them the top treatment in orthodontics, year after year.
Ceramic braces
Also known as clear braces, tooth-colored braces, or aesthetic braces, ceramic braces function much the same as metal braces, with the additional benefit of semi-translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Ceramic braces are about the same size and shape as metal braces, but they’re able to blend in better with a patient’s natural smile for a more discreet straightening option.
While ceramic braces are tough, the material they’re made from can be prone to chipping or cracking. Since metal braces are able to withstand more pressure than ceramic braces, they may be a better choice for individuals who have more severe issues that need to be corrected.
Ceramic braces are slightly more expensive than metal braces, as well. Because of this, and since they can be more prone to breaking, we typically recommend ceramic braces for adults and older teens. That being said, ceramic braces are a great treatment option for many patients. When paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastics, they are an incredibly subtle and efficient way to straighten your smile!
Find braces that work with your smile at Bennett Orthodontics
At Bennett Orthodontics, we believe that every smile is unique. We know that what works for one person may not be the best choice for another. That’s why Dr. Bennett creates a one-of-a-kind treatment plan for each patient he sees. With his years of experience and expert skills, you can trust that he’ll only recommend the treatment that’s best for your unique smile.
If you’re ready to take the first steps in achieving the smile of your dreams, contact the team at Bennett Orthodontics today and schedule your free consultation!